Axar Patel Hails Mitchell Starc After DC End Losing Streak in IPL 2026 Thriller
Delhi Capitals finally returned to winning form in the 2026 season of the Indian Premier League after a dominant all-round performance against Rajasthan Royals. Captain Axar Patel led from the front as his side chased down a massive 226-run target in a high-pressure contest.
The night also belonged to Australian fast bowler Mitchell Starc, who made a sensational return from injury. Playing his first match in over three months, he delivered a match-shaping spell that broke the backbone of the Rajasthan batting lineup.
Starc’s Return Changes the Game
Mitchell Starc wasted no time making an impact. He struck in his very first over, removing dangerous opener Yashasvi Jaiswal and immediately putting Rajasthan under pressure.
He returned later in the innings to dismiss Ravindra Jadeja and Riyan Parag, finishing with impressive figures of 3/40.
Starc’s Key Impact:
- Early breakthrough in powerplay
- Removal of key middle-order batters
- Controlled pace and swing under pressure
- Momentum shift in DC’s favour
Axar Patel described Starc’s performance as a reminder of his world-class status.
“That’s why he is a legend of the game,” Axar said after the match. “Coming back after three months and performing like that shows his quality.”
DC End Losing Streak in Style
Before this match, Delhi Capitals had struggled with three consecutive defeats against strong opponents, including Royal Challengers Bengaluru, Punjab Kings, and Sunrisers Hyderabad.
The win against Rajasthan Royals marked a crucial turnaround in their campaign.
Recent Form Snapshot:
| Match | Opponent | Result |
|---|---|---|
| Match 1 | Royal Challengers Bengaluru | Lost |
| Match 2 | Punjab Kings | Lost |
| Match 3 | Sunrisers Hyderabad | Lost |
| Match 4 | Rajasthan Royals | Won |
The victory not only ended their losing streak but also restored confidence in the squad.
Rajasthan Royals Still Post a Big Total
Despite early setbacks caused by Starc and New Zealand pacer Kyle Jamieson, Rajasthan Royals still managed to post a strong 225-run total.
Rajasthan Royals were rescued by a brilliant innings from captain Riyan Parag, who scored a powerful 90-run knock.
Key Contributions from RR:
- Riyan Parag – 90 runs
- Aggressive middle-order partnerships
- Strong finish despite early wickets
However, losing early wickets proved costly in the final outcome.
DC’s Chase Led by KL Rahul and Nissanka
Delhi Capitals responded with confidence and intent. Openers set the tone early, ensuring the required run rate never got out of reach.
KL Rahul played a match-winning innings, scoring 75 off 40 balls and earning the Player of the Match award.
He was supported by Pathum Nissanka, who added a quick 62 off 33 deliveries.
Key Batting Performances:
- KL Rahul – 75 (40)
- Pathum Nissanka – 62 (33)
- Nitish Rana – quick cameo
- Tristan Stubbs – finishing impact
- Ashutosh Sharma – late acceleration
DC reached the target in 19.1 overs with seven wickets in hand.
Axar Patel’s Captaincy Message
After the match, Axar Patel highlighted the importance of consistency and belief. He praised his team’s ability to execute plans under pressure.
He said the team stayed focused despite earlier losses and continued trusting their process.
Axar’s Key Remarks:
- Team stayed committed after defeats
- Execution improved in both batting and bowling
- Early wickets shaped the match outcome
- Players responded under pressure
Axar emphasized that winning comes from sticking to the basics rather than overthinking situations.
Why Starc’s Spell Was Crucial
Starc’s return added balance and aggression to the Delhi bowling attack. His ability to strike early changed the match dynamics instantly.
Match Impact Summary:
- Removed top-order danger early
- Controlled momentum in middle overs
- Forced RR into rebuilding phase
- Supported pressure from other bowlers
Kyle Jamieson also contributed with a key wicket, showing DC’s bowling depth.
RR vs DC: Key Match Comparison
| Category | Rajasthan Royals | Delhi Capitals |
|---|---|---|
| Total Score | 225 | 226 |
| Top Scorer | Riyan Parag (90) | KL Rahul (75) |
| Best Bowler | Mitchell Starc (3/40) | Balanced attack |
| Result | Loss | Win |
Turning Point of the Match
The defining moment came during Starc’s second spell when he removed two set batters in quick succession. That double strike broke Rajasthan’s momentum and allowed DC to control the chase.
What This Win Means for Delhi Capitals
The victory strengthens DC’s position in the IPL table and restores belief in their campaign. More importantly, it confirms their ability to bounce back under pressure.
Positive Signs for DC:
- Strong batting depth
- Improved bowling execution
- Match-winning overseas impact
- Leadership clarity under Axar
Looking Ahead
Delhi Capitals now shift focus to maintaining consistency. With key players returning to form and confidence building, the team aims to push deeper into the tournament.
Starc’s fitness will also remain a key factor as DC manage his workload for the remaining fixtures.
Conclusion
This match was more than just a win for Delhi Capitals—it was a statement of resilience. Mitchell Starc’s return provided the spark, KL Rahul anchored the chase, and Axar Patel’s leadership kept the team steady through pressure.
In a tournament defined by momentum shifts, DC rediscovered theirs at the perfect time.
