Sohaib Akhtar makes a memorable IPL debut.

It was worth the wait for Sohaib Akhtar Fans. Playing his first IPL match since the ban on him was lifted; Sohaib did what he does best, he ripped through the top order of Delhi Daredevils.

Shoaib Akhtar produced a magical three-over opening spell to demolish the Delhi Daredevils top-order, as Kolkata Knight Riders scripted a sensational 23-run win in the DLF-Indian Premier League encounter at the Eden Gardens here on Tuesday.

For Akhtar, who had to miss two matches on fitness grounds and was doubtful even for this tie, it was a memorable IPL debut. He began in spectacular fashion, sending back Delhi Daredevil skipper Virender Sehwag in the second ball of the opening over.

He removed Gautam Gambhir in his next over and dismissed A.B. de Villiers and Manoj Tiwary off successive balls in his third over to be on a hat-trick. Tillekeratne Dilshan, however, denied Akhtar a hat-trick.

Shukla polished off the tail with a haul of three of six in five balls. He was also on a hat-trick but Yomahesh denied him the feat.

An elated Ganguly said it was one of the fantastic victories in his career. “It was not easy to come back and win the match after setting such a small target on this pitch,” he said.

Earlier, Knight Riders posted a small total against a disciplined Daredevils attack.

The man of the match Sohaib Akhtar proved once again why he is one of the best pace bowler in the world. His IPL debut raises hopes for Kolkata team. They were able to defend a small total ,thanks to Akhtar.