Delhi Capitals batter Tristan Stubbs says he isn’t getting overly anxious about the team’s batting performances in the ongoing Indian Premier League. Delhi are sitting with three wins and three losses so far, a record that might look modest, but Stubbs believes the bigger picture is more encouraging than the results suggest—especially because most of their matches have ended with them chasing. In fact, they have chased in every game played to this point.
Stubbs points to two clear trends that have shaped DC’s season so far. First, when opponents post something “gettable”—a total below 180, for example—Delhi feel they can chase it down. Second, once the target rises to 200 or beyond, the batting outlook appears to change quickly. Even so, Stubbs insists the batting hasn’t been as poor as it might sound, arguing that they have repeatedly stayed close even in defeats.
“It’s looked more difficult than it actually is because we’ve been chasing every match. The other day against SRH, we lost three wickets in an over and didn’t bat particularly well—yet we still ended up scoring 190-something,” Stubbs said.
He added that while the innings haven’t been flawless, Delhi have managed to keep results moving in the right direction. “We haven’t had the perfect innings, but on a rough day we’ve still won three out of six. Even in our losses, we’ve still made 190,” he explained.
Stubbs also emphasized the team’s confidence and intent as the tournament moves along. “We know there are a couple of small moments here and there in games. We’re putting up big totals. We’re not too worried—everyone’s really positive, and everyone is batting well, which makes it exciting,” he said.
Stubbs wants to bat higher and be more impactful
In addition to defending DC’s overall batting form, Stubbs expressed a desire to move up the order so he can contribute at an even greater scale. He has previously often come in at No. 5 and No. 6, while against Gujarat Titans he even found himself at No. 7.
Stubbs said the context of his entry has been a factor, particularly when early wickets fall. “I’ve come in after we’ve lost wickets early, so it’s been a bit challenging. I just try to read the situation and play accordingly. If there’s an opening to bat higher up the order, I’d be happy to do that and try to make more of an impact,” he remarked.
He believes his approach changes based on the match situation, but the goal remains the same—building momentum through partnerships. “I’ll try to change gears and do what I think is right out there. In those two games [against LSG and RCB], fortunately, the match never slipped away from us. It was always one key partnership in both those games. I strongly believe in batting in partnerships, and that’s what I try to do my best,” he added.
DC vs Punjab Kings: Stubbs on the pitch and expectations
Later on Thursday at home, Delhi Capitals will face the table-toppers Punjab Kings, who remain unbeaten and are widely regarded as one of the most dangerous sides this season. When Stubbs was asked about the likely pitch at the Arun Jaitley Stadium, he suggested Delhi will need to adapt rather than assume a specific style of contest.
“We’ll have to see what the conditions are like. The wicket is already used, so we’ll assess it and adjust accordingly,” Stubbs said.
With that in mind, the veteran batter’s comments hint the game may not turn into a pure run-fest. Used pitches often assist bowlers more than they do hitters, which could influence how both teams pace their innings.
