NewKerala.com

IPL 2026: Munaf Patel Backs Bowlers, Confirms Starc Return for RR Clash

Delhi Capitals bowling coach Munaf Patel has stressed that while batters can win individual matches, tournaments are decided by bowling performances. Speaking ahead of the Rajasthan Royals clash, Patel pointed to high-scoring T20 games but emphasized disciplined bowling as key to sustained success. He also confirmed that pace spearhead Mitchell Starc is available for selection after recovering from a shoulder and elbow injury sustained in February. Starc, who took 31 wickets in the Ashes, last played for Sydney Sixers in the BBL before his injury layoff.

Key Points: IPL 2026: Munaf Patel Backs Bowlers, Starc Available vs RR

  • Munaf Patel emphasizes bowlers win tournaments
  • Mitchell Starc available for RR clash
  • Starc last played in BBL after Ashes workload
  • Starc suffered shoulder/elbow injury in February
2 min read

IPL 2026: Munaf Patel backs bowlers, confirms Starc availability before RR clash

Delhi Capitals bowling coach Munaf Patel says bowlers win tournaments. Mitchell Starc is available for selection vs Rajasthan Royals on Friday.

"A match can be won by batters, but a tournament is won by bowlers. - Munaf Patel"

Jaipur, April 30

Delhi Capitals bowling coach Munaf Patel has underlined the importance of bowlers in T20 cricket, saying that while batters can win individual matches, tournaments are ultimately decided by bowling performances.

Speaking at the pre-match press conference ahead of the Rajasthan Royals (RR) clash on Friday, Patel pointed to the high-scoring nature of modern T20 games but stressed that disciplined bowling remains the key to sustained success.

"I always say this, a match can be won by batters, but a tournament is won by bowlers. Because if you see, even yesterday around 250 runs were scored. So obviously, if bowlers bowl well, you can win the tournament. Batters can win you a game, but if you don't bowl well, you cannot win a tournament. That is something I strongly believe in," Patel said.

Patel also provided an update on pace spearhead Mitchell Starc, indicating that the Australian quick is available for selection for tomorrow's clash

"He is available from tomorrow. Our best bowler will definitely play, but the final decision will be taken tomorrow. Him coming back, it definitely helps. Fast bowlers who may have struggled in the powerplay will get more support," he added.

The 36-year-old left-armer has been out of action since late January following a heavy workload during the Ashes, where he was named Player of the Series for claiming 31 wickets at an average of 19.93. Starc bowled over 150 overs across five Tests before featuring in five matches for the Sydney Sixers in the Big Bash League (BBL).

His last appearance came in a game against the Perth Scorchers, where he suffered a fall on his left shoulder and elbow while attempting a catch. Though he took a break in February, lingering soreness upon his return to bowling delayed his IPL arrival.

- ANI

Share this article:

Reader Comments

P
Priya S
Munaf bhai, bol toh aap sahi rahe ho. But Starc coming back after injury and a long break—is he really fit? DC needs to be careful with him. We don't want another half-fit star getting smashed all over the park. Yaar, Indian bowlers need to step up too.
J
James A
As a cricket fan from the UK, I've always admired how the IPL brings out the best in bowlers like Munaf. His point about bowling winning tournaments is spot on—look at any World Cup winner. Hope Starc's shoulder holds up; he's a game-changer when fit.
V
Vikram M
I agree with the sentiment, but I wish Munaf would focus on developing Indian bowling talent instead of relying on overseas stars like Starc. Our domestic bowlers need this exposure. Starc is world-class, sure, but what about the future of Indian pace bowling? 🇮🇳
R
Rohit P
Munaf's logic is bang on! Remember how KKR won in 2012 and 2014? It was their bowlers, not just the batters. But I'm skeptical about Starc—the Ashes workload was massive, and he's been out for months. DC shouldn't rush him. Take a leaf out of MI's book and manage him carefully.
S
Sarah B
Great to see Munaf Patel proving that bowling coaches matter in the IPL. Too often it's all about batting bravado. Starc back is huge for DC—his yorkers and swing could change their season. Hope they don't mess up his workload though. Go DC! 🖤

We welcome thoughtful discussions from our readers. Please keep comments respectful and on-topic.

Leave a Comment

Minimum 50 characters 0/50