Delhi Capitals skipper Axar Patel was full of admiration for Mitchell Starc after the Australian pacer delivered a stunning display of death bowling to help his team clinch a nail-biting Super Over win against Rajasthan Royals in the IPL on Wednesday.
Rajasthan looked firmly in control while chasing 189, cruising at 161 for 2 in the 18th over. But the momentum shifted when Starc struck to remove the well-set Nitish Rana, who had made 51, throwing the match wide open.
Needing just nine runs from the final over with six wickets in hand, Rajasthan ran into Starc’s masterclass. The left-armer unleashed a string of pinpoint yorkers, denying any room for big shots and dragging the match into a Super Over.
Naturally, Starc was handed the ball again for the Super Over. Rajasthan could only manage 11 runs from five deliveries before losing both their wickets. Delhi then chased down the target in just four balls, notching their fifth win in six matches to climb to the top of the points table.
“When it came to that final over, there was only one name in my mind – Mitchell Starc,” Axar said. “He bowled 12 out of 12 yorkers, maybe missed just one. That’s why he’s considered a legend in Australian cricket. His composure under pressure was incredible.”
Axar also praised Starc’s clarity of thought despite field changes and high-stakes moments. “Even with adjustments happening around him, he stayed focused and executed perfectly. That shows how mentally strong he is.”
Starc, named Player of the Match, remained humble about his performance.
“I just focused on execution. I had a clear plan and backed myself to deliver,” he said. “You play long enough, everyone knows what you’ll try, but if you nail it, you’re in with a chance. A little bit of luck always helps too.”
REF: REUTERS
