Mitchell Starc's Ice-Cold Nerve Seals Super Over Thriller for Delhi Capitals
In a powerful IPL clash at Feroz Shah Kotla, Mitchell Starc emerged as the ultimate game-changer as Delhi Capitals edged out Rajasthan Royals in a nail-biting Super Over finish on Wednesday. Starc, known for his calm under pressure, defended nine runs in the final over to force a Super Over, and then delivered a brilliant spell to help DC secure their first home win of the season.
Chasing 189, Rajasthan Royals were cruising thanks to fluent fifties from Yashasvi Jaiswal (51 off 37) and Delhi-born Nitish Rana (51 off 28). Their 92-run stand looked to have sealed the game, but DC’s bowlers had other plans. Kuldeep Yadav (1/33) removed the dangerous Jaiswal, while Starc returned to trap Rana in front, shifting momentum Delhi's way. Rajasthan finished at 188/4, taking the game into a Super Over.
Starc conceded just two boundaries in the Super Over and was supported by two sharp run-outs that limited RR to 11 runs. KL Rahul and Tristan Stubbs chased it down in style — a four and a six sealed the thrilling win for the Capitals.
Earlier, DC posted a competitive 188/5, riding on Abishek Porel’s classy 49 and impactful cameos from Axar Patel (34 off 14) and Tristan Stubbs (34* off 18). Porel lit up the powerplay with a flurry of boundaries, especially taking apart Tushar Deshpande for 23 runs in an over. Rahul added stability with a composed 38, partnering Porel for a 63-run stand.
However, Delhi’s innings hit a snag with a mix-up that led to Karun Nair’s run out. Jofra Archer (2/32) then struck to remove Rahul, just as DC looked to accelerate. But Axar turned the tide, smashing four boundaries and two sixes in a 13-ball blitz before Stubbs provided the finishing touch.
Sandeep Sharma bowled economically until a wayward final over, leaking extras that proved costly. Despite that, Royals seemed in control until Starc’s death-over masterclass and Delhi’s electric fielding stole the win.
This dramatic win gives Delhi Capitals a much-needed boost as they look to keep their playoff hopes alive.
