Daijiworld Media Network – Bengaluru
Bengaluru, Apr 28: In a scathing assessment following Delhi Capitals’ dramatic batting collapse, former South African pacer Dale Steyn criticised modern batters for failing to prepare adequately against “hard-length” deliveries, a weakness ruthlessly exploited in the IPL clash on Monday.
Delhi Capitals were bowled out for just 75 in 16.3 overs by Royal Challengers Bengaluru, after pace duo Josh Hazlewood and Bhuvneshwar Kumar dismantled the top order with six wickets in the first four overs.
Steyn pointed out that while batters are no longer intimidated, they lack the technical preparation required to counter consistent hard-length bowling. He noted that bowlers like Kagiso Rabada and Jofra Archer thrive on this discipline, yet batters are not training enough to handle it effectively.
“The fear is technical skill,” Steyn remarked, adding that it is too late in the tournament for players to make significant adjustments, predicting continued dominance by such bowlers.
Former South African batter Herschelle Gibbs echoed the concern, suggesting that batters are also reluctant to counterattack by stepping out of the crease to disrupt bowlers’ lengths.
Delhi’s innings hit a historic low, slumping to 8 for 6 and recording the lowest-ever powerplay score in IPL history at 13 for 6 after six overs—highlighting a stark contrast to their recent high of 264/2 in a previous match.
The match has reignited debate over whether modern T20 batting techniques are keeping pace with evolving fast-bowling strategies.