New Delhi, May 18 — Delhi Capitals kept their Indian Premier League play-off hopes alive with a five-wicket home win over Rajasthan Royals on Sunday, powered by veteran Australian pacer Mitchell Starc whose four-wicket haul — including a pivotal three-wicket over — swung the game in the Capitals’ favour. Head coach Hemang Badani singled out Starc’s influence on younger players after the match, calling him “possibly one of the best role models anyone can have in sport.”
Starc’s early breakthroughs arrested a flying start from the Royals and changed the momentum when Delhi needed it most. His disciplined, hard-length bowling and clear game plan helped restrict Rajasthan at crucial moments, allowing the Capitals to chase down the target with confidence.
Badani praised Starc’s professionalism and preparation, saying the bowler’s work ethic, pre-game planning and training standards set a benchmark for the squad and explaining that such habits explain Starc’s longevity in the game. He added that many younger players could learn from Starc’s approach to preparation and match-day routines.
The victory moved Delhi to 12 points and into seventh place on the table; the Capitals now must beat Kolkata Knight Riders on May 24 to remain in contention for a play-off berth. In other IPL headlines from the day, Virat Kohli became the first Indian to record 10 T20 centuries, and later fixtures include Rajasthan Royals versus Lucknow Super Giants at 7:30pm tonight. (PTI)
Original Source: https://theshillongtimes.com/2026/05/19/coach-badani-credits-starc-for-dc-revival/
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Publish Date: 2026-05-19 04:24:00
