The stage is set for a high-stakes encounter at the Wankhede Stadium as Delhi Capitals opted to field first against Mumbai Indians in a virtual knockout clash of IPL 2025. With a coveted playoff spot up for grabs, the clash has taken on immense significance for both franchises.

Delhi’s challenge grew steeper with the absence of their regular captain, Axar Patel, who was ruled out due to illness. Stand-in skipper Faf du Plessis confirmed the news at the toss: “He has been really sick in the last two days. We'll miss him today. Axar is two players and it's difficult to replace him. We'll see how it goes."