Vaibhav Sooryavanshi and Mitchell Starc (Image Agency) Vaibhav Sooryavanshi has already matched some of the fastest and most respected bowlers in IPL 2026 and has come through with surprising confidence. At just 15, he went after names like Jasprit Bumrah, Josh Hazlewood, Bhuvneshwar Kumar and Pat Cummins, paying little heed to reputation and focusing his attention solely on the ball.So far, he has amassed 400 runs at an average of 44.44 and a strike of 238.10, numbers that underline how dominant he has been. With eight games remaining, curiosity is growing as to how far he can take his season.
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Bhuvneshwar Kumar on RCB loss: ‘It was just an off day’After delivering match-defining knocks against the likes of Mumbai Indians, Royal Challengers Bengaluru and Sunrisers Hyderabad, Sooryavanshi now faces a new challenge in Delhi Capitals. And Mitchell Starc could welcome him right at the top of the order.The Australian left-arm speedster recently joined the Delhi Capitals after recovering from shoulder and elbow problems. He has been cleared to play and comes at a crucial time in the season as DC sits seventh and continues its push for a playoff spot.The prospect of Starc fielding the new ball against the fearless 15-year-old naturally caught the eye. However, former West Indies fast bowler Ian Bishop believes the challenge will be different from what Sooryavanshi has faced so far.“No, I think you have to give Mitchell Starc credit. He will come in better prepared, he won’t be Jasprit Bumrah,” the former West Indies pacer said in a yes or no segment on ESPNCricinfo when asked if Sooryavanshi could hit Starc for a first-ball six.Sooryavanshi’s numbers against left-arm pace suggest a mixture of bold stroke play and occasional vulnerability when the bowling is disciplined. This could give Starc an early opening if he finds a rhythm.However, the youngster has repeatedly made it clear that his focus is only on the ball and not the bowler. Given Starc’s reputation for early breakthroughs, there is a good chance that Sooryavanshi will be tested from the very beginning.It will unleash a fascinating duel. Starc brings experience and panache while Sooryavanshi brings fearlessness and dynamism. At this stage it looks like a battle that could swing either way, with the new ball contest likely to set the tone.
