Delhi Capitals turned their fortunes around with a seven-wicket triumph over Rajasthan Royals in Jaipur, and the victory carried a heavy emotional message. The franchise dedicated the win to two young supporters, Yagya Bhatia and Abhav Bhatia, who tragically lost their lives in a road accident earlier this month. The deaths have left the DC camp shaken, and Friday’s performance served as both a return to winning ways and a tribute to two fans who had become well known in the DC community through their unwavering support.
Tribute to Yagya and Abhav after a heartbreaking loss
Delhi had been reeling after the cousins’ death in a hit-and-run incident on April 27. Reports said they were travelling home after attending Delhi’s match against Royal Challengers Bengaluru at the Arun Jaitley Stadium. The franchise’s supporters had included Yagya and Abhav as active members of the “DC Toli” group, and their presence had grown steadily among fellow fans.
What happened on the ground in Jaipur
The win in Jaipur arrived following a difficult run for Delhi, ending a three-match losing streak. Head coach Hemang Badani addressed the squad in the dressing room after the match, asking the players to hold the two supporters in their thoughts. In a video shared by the franchise on social media, Badani made it clear the result was meant to honour Yagya and Abhav.
- Badani said the victory was dedicated to the “two lads” — Yagya and Abhav Bhatia — who were no longer with them.
- He added that both were “massive DC fans” who had supported the franchise for a while, even suggesting their images might have been seen on Instagram.
- He concluded by praising the players for doing their fans proud.
Axar Patel also spoke at the post-match presentation
Skipper Axar Patel echoed the sentiments during the post-match presentation. He acknowledged the tragedy that unfolded involving DC supporters after the previous game and expressed condolences for their families. Patel then dedicated the victory to the two young members of the Delhi Capitals family.
- Axar said he wanted to offer his deepest condolences following the tragedy involving DC fans after the last match.
- He dedicated the win to Yagya and Abhav, describing them as two members of the DC family.
Details of the accident and the impact on the DC community
Police reports stated that the incident took place on Ashoka Road. The cousins were reportedly riding a motorcycle near the Mahadev Road T-point when a truck allegedly struck it and then fled the scene. Both victims were rushed to Ram Manohar Lohia Hospital, where they were declared dead on arrival.
- The accident was reported to have occurred on Ashoka Road.
- It was alleged that a truck hit the motorcycle near the Mahadev Road T-point before leaving.
- Yagya (20) and Abhav (14) were taken to Ram Manohar Lohia Hospital and declared dead on arrival.
With the match ending Delhi’s losing run, the result also carried significance beyond the points table. Friday’s performance blended on-field success with a poignant gesture to honour two supporters whose passion had helped them stand out within the Delhi fanbase.