Kamal Ghorui
Vaibhav Sooryavanshi has already squared up to some of the quickest and most respected bowlers in IPL 2026 and come through with striking assurance. At just 15, he has gone after 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 strike rate of 238.10, numbers that underline just how dominant he has been. With eight matches still left, 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 has recently joined Delhi Capitals after recovering from shoulder and elbow issues. He 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.It 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.
