Vaibhav Sooryavanshi has already squared up against some of the quickest and most respected bowlers in IPL 2026, emerging with striking assurance. At just 15 years of age, he has fearlessly taken on names like Jasprit Bumrah, Josh Hazlewood, Bhuvneshwar Kumar, and Pat Cummins, showing little regard for reputation and keeping his attention fixed solely on the ball.
So far, he has accumulated 400 runs at an average of 44.44 and a staggering strike rate of 238.10, numbers that underline just how dominant he has been. With eight matches still remaining, there is growing curiosity around just how far he can push his season.
After producing match-defining knocks against teams like Mumbai Indians, Royal Challengers Bengaluru, and Sunrisers Hyderabad, Sooryavanshi now faces a new challenge in the Delhi Capitals. And right at the top of the order, he could be greeted by Mitchell Starc, the Australian left-arm quick who has recently joined Delhi Capitals after recovering from shoulder and elbow issues. Starc has been cleared to play and arrives at a crucial stage of the season as DC sit seventh and continue their push for a playoff spot.
The prospect of Starc charging in with the new ball against a fearless 15-year-old has naturally caught attention. However, former West Indies fast bowler Ian Bishop believes the challenge will be different compared to what Sooryavanshi has faced so far. “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 pacer said on ESPNCricinfo in a yes-or-no segment when asked if Sooryavanshi could hit Starc for a first-ball six.
Sooryavanshi’s numbers against left-arm pace suggest a mixture of bold strokeplay and occasional vulnerability when the bowling is disciplined. That could give Starc an early opening if he finds rhythm. Still, the youngster has repeatedly made it clear that his focus remains only on the ball, not the bowler. Given Starc’s reputation for early breakthroughs, there is every chance Sooryavanshi will be tested from the very first over.
This sets up a fascinating duel. Starc brings experience and swing, while Sooryavanshi brings fearlessness and momentum. At this stage, it feels like a battle that could swing either way, with the new-ball contest likely to set the tone. Stay updated with the latest IPL Live Score, IPL news on Times of India. Follow the IPL Schedule, check the IPL Points Table, and track the race for the IPL Orange Cap and IPL Purple Cap.
