Jasprit Bumrah, check. Josh Hazlewood, check. Pat Cummins, check. Vaibhav Sooryavanshi has not yet been truly tested in the 2026 Indian Premier League (IPL). He has already taken on some of the biggest names in the competition and still managed to come out on top in style. For him, it’s never about the reputation of the bowler or the team—just the white ball heading towards his stumps. At just 15 years of age, Sooryavanshi looks completely in control, and with around 400 runs already to his name, he could still produce massive numbers with eight matches remaining.
Vaibhav Sooryavanshi vs Mitchell Starc: Who wins tonight? (DC/RR)
After dominating against Mumbai Indians, Royal Challengers Bengaluru and Sunrisers Hyderabad, Sooryavanshi now faces Delhi Capitals, with Mitchell Starc expected to take the new ball. The fiery Australian pacer bowling thunderbolts to the teenager sets up a mouth-watering contest, but whether Sooryavanshi can repeat his aggressive approach—like a first-ball six against Starc—is something even Ian Bishop is unsure about.
“No, I think you have to give Mitchell Starc credit. He’ll come better prepared; he won’t be Jasprit Bumrah,” the former West Indies fast bowler said on ESPNcricinfo.
Also Read: Vaibhav Sooryavanshi challenge against Mitchell Starc; Aussie pacer holds the experience edge
Who has the edge?
Starc, who became the most expensive player in IPL history at the 2024 auction when Kolkata Knight Riders signed him for ₹24.75 crore, later played a key role in their title-winning season. He was released and picked up by Delhi Capitals for ₹11.75 crore in the IPL 2025 mega auction. After dealing with shoulder and elbow injuries, Starc has now joined DC and is set to feature as they fight to stay in playoff contention.
Sooryavanshi’s performances against left-arm pace this season show both his fearless intent and a slight weakness when bowlers maintain discipline. He has attacked without hesitation—5 off 3 against Khaleel Ahmed, 7 off 2 against Trent Boult, 20 off 6 before dismissal against Arshdeep Singh, and 7 off 3 against Marco Jansen.
As the youngster’s explosive batting meets Starc’s swing and pace, neither is expected to hold back. Sooryavanshi believes in watching the ball, not the bowler. With Starc’s reputation for early breakthroughs, this duel promises an intense opening battle—but the outcome remains too close to predict. If anything, Starc may just have a slight edge, but fans are in for a thrilling contest. (Agency)
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