Follow Us
Join UsTristan Stubbs, the dynamic finisher Delhi Capitals (DC) had long sought, has provided the crucial boost they needed in the death overs. Transitioning from a backup player, the South African has solidified his position as a permanent middle-order batter for DC in the Indian Premier League (IPL) 2024 season.
In 14 innings, Stubbs amassed 378 runs at an average of 54 and a strike rate of 190.91, with three fifties. His standout performance was an unbeaten 71 off just 25 balls against Mumbai Indians, making him the second-highest run-scorer for DC, trailing only skipper Rishabh Pant (446). Notably, Stubbs hit more sixes (26) than fours (24).
In the previous two seasons, Stubbs featured in just four games for Mumbai, struggling to showcase his potential in the world’s premier T20 league. This season, however, the unfortunate absence of Harry Brook, who withdrew due to a family bereavement, paved the way for Stubbs to shine. Seizing the opportunity, he made a compelling case for his retention and boosted his profile ahead of next year’s mega auction.
In the final league game against Lucknow Super Giants (LSG), the 23-year-old capitalized on his promotion to No. 5, scoring an unbeaten 57 off 25 balls with three fours and four sixes. His classical lofted shot over long-off to bring up his fifty was a highlight, propelling DC to 208 and securing a 19-run victory.
“I always feel I can give myself a bit of time and then can catch up later on,” Stubbs told the broadcasters after his innings against LSG. “Especially if you get one or two away and the bowler feels some pressure, then you’ve got a lot of momentum.”
Stubbs’ success is rooted in his fearless attitude, which, combined with his consistency, has made an immediate impact. His ability to execute reverse scoops and other innovative shots has set him apart. Against Mumbai Indians earlier in the season, Stubbs took 26 runs off an over from left-arm pacer Luke Wood, showcasing his versatility and game awareness.
Stubbs scored 252 runs off just 96 balls in the death overs (16-20) at an astonishing strike rate of 262.50, the highest in this IPL season (minimum 50 balls faced). His prowess in the 18-20 over phase was particularly impressive, with 173 runs off 54 balls, including 13 fours and 15 sixes, and only two dot balls.
Stats from IPL 2024 (18-20 overs):
| Runs | Balls | Strike-rate | 4s/6s | Dots | Dismissals |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| 173 | 54 | 320.4 | 13/15 | 2 | 1 |
Stubbs’ strike rate skyrocketed to 320 in this phase, underscoring his consistent contributions. His dominance against pacers, with an average of 78, reflects his adaptability to fast-paced pitches.
Overall IPL 2024 Stats Against Pacers and Spinners:
| Bowling Type | Runs | Balls | Strike-rate | Average | Dots | 4s/6s | Dismissals |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Pace | 234 | 118 | 198.3 | 78 | 23 | 18/15 | 3 |
| Spin | 144 | 80 | 180 | 48 | 19 | 06/11 | 3 |
Stubbs has certainly made a strong case for his retention, presenting a potential dilemma for the Capitals in deciding whether to keep him or let him go to another team.
What’s Next for Tristan Stubbs?
Stubbs’ stellar performances in the SA20 and IPL earned him a spot in South Africa’s squad for the 2024 T20 World Cup. In the SA20, he scored 301 runs at a strike rate of 168.15 for champions Sunrisers Eastern Cape, including an unbeaten 56 off 30 balls in the final.
Stubbs will now join a potent middle-order trio with Heinrich Klaasen and David Miller, aiming to boost South Africa’s chances in the death overs. With 239 runs in 13 T20I innings at a strike rate of 155.19, Stubbs heads to the World Cup in peak form, ready to make his mark on the international stage.
It will be intriguing to see if he can carry his IPL success into the global arena and further establish himself as a consistent match-winner for South Africa.
