The much-anticipated showdown between Mitchell Starc and teenage batting sensation Vaibhav Sooryavanshi in the IPL 2026 clash between Delhi Capitals and Rajasthan Royals ended in a whimper, as Kyle Jamieson stole the show in Jaipur on Friday. While Starc made a triumphant return to the season with a wicket on his debut, it was the New Zealand pacer who stole the early spotlight, dismissing the youngster before the marquee duel could even begin.

Rajasthan Royals captain Riyan Parag opted to bat first after winning the toss, but the decision quickly backfired as Delhi’s revamped pace attack struck with venom. Starc opened the bowling and was immediately tested by Yashasvi Jaiswal, who smashed the very first delivery for a six. However, the experienced Australian had the last laugh. In the same over, a full toss on middle surprised Jaiswal, who mistimed his swing and popped the ball back to Starc for a simple caught-and-bowled. Jaiswal was out for 6 off just 3 balls, giving Starc his first wicket of the season.

At the other end, the hype around Sooryavanshi—dubbed the "Sooryavanshi" of the tournament—was palpable. He began brightly, stroking a confident boundary off his very first ball against Jamieson. But the promise was short-lived. On the very next delivery, a dipping low full toss sneaked under his bat, deflected off the pad, and crashed into the stumps. Sooryavanshi was gone for 4 off 2 balls, leaving fans wondering what might have been.

The pre-match narrative had been dominated by Starc’s return and the potential clash with the in-form youngster. But Jamieson’s timely strike ensured that the contest never materialised, giving Delhi Capitals early control. With both aggressive Rajasthan openers back in the hut inside two overs, DC’s bowling attack made an immediate impact. Starc’s comeback added intensity, but it was Jamieson who defined the early proceedings, upstaging the veteran in a moment that will be talked about for days.