'On Par With Bumrah' - Michael Clarke Picks Best Death Overs Bowler In T20s

Former Australia skipper Michael Clarke showered praise on Mitchell Starc and labeled him one of the best death bowlers in the world, claiming that he is on par with Jasprit Bumrah when it comes to excelling in the 16-20 phase.

Starc was bagged by Delhi Capitals (DC) at the IPL 2025 mega auction for ₹11.75 cr on the back of his exploits in IPL 2024 for Kolkata Knight Riders (KKR), where he bowled KKR to victory in the playoffs. 

In IPL 2024, it was with the new ball, specifically in the powerplay, that Starc shone, taking 11 of his 17 wickets in the season in the first six. However, Clarke opined that, come IPL 2025, he would like to see DC save up to three overs of Starc for the death overs. 

“Yes, wickets up front, but I'd nearly bowl Starcy one over up front and hope it swings, and then I'd save him for three overs at the death,” Clarke said on the Beyond23 Cricket Podcast, previewing IPL 2025.

“He's that good. If he's fully fit, I think he'll show everyone in the world just how good he is. Him and Bumrah, I think are the best two death bowlers in the world in this format. So, this is a huge opportunity for Mitchell Starc. I can't wait to see,” Clarke said.

The numbers, though, go against Clarke’s opinion. In IPL 2024, Starc bowled 10.5 overs at the death and conceded 134 runs at an economy of 12.4. Since 2020, the left-arm pacer has an economy of 10.9 in the 16-20 phase.