Delhi Capitals captain Axar Patel heaped praise on Mitchell Starc after the left-arm pacer claimed three wickets in his first game of IPL 2026, helping Delhi Capitals defeat Rajasthan Royals by seven wickets. The Australian fast bowler returned to professional cricket after nearly three months, recovering from shoulder and elbow injuries. Starc dismissed Yashasvi Jaiswal in his first over, putting Rajasthan on the back foot. Later, in the 17th over, he also removed Ravindra Jadeja and Riyan Parag, finishing with figures of 3/40.
Axar Patel's Praise for Starc
In the post-match press conference, Axar Patel remarked, 'Obviously. The way he bowled today, that's why he's a legend of the game. After three months away, coming back and delivering a performance like this on a wicket like this - it tells you how big a player he is. Very happy that Starc is back and showing everyone why he's such a great bowler.'
Delhi's Dominant Chase
KL Rahul led a composed chase as Delhi Capitals defeated Rajasthan Royals by seven wickets at Sawai Mansingh Stadium, successfully hunting down 226 with five balls to spare. Rahul anchored the innings with a steady 75 off 40 balls, while Pathum Nissanka set the tone early with a rapid 62 off 33. Their 110-run opening stand put Delhi firmly in control. Contributions from Nitish Rana (33 off 17) and an unbeaten finishing stand between Ashutosh Sharma and Tristan Stubbs ensured a smooth chase.
Riyan Parag's Heroics in Vain
Earlier, Riyan Parag starred for Rajasthan with a superb 90 off 50 after they slipped to 12/2. He shared a crucial 102-run partnership with Dhruv Jurel (42), helping Royals post 225/6. However, on a batting-friendly pitch, their total proved insufficient as Delhi completed a second successive successful 225+ chase at the venue within a week.
