NEERAJ WARMS UP FOR SEASON WITH WIN IN SA

On Wednesday night under the Kotla lights, the ball whispered, tailed and darted in reverse.

- Samreen Razzaqui

NEW DELHI: In a format where power-hitting and flat decks have reigned supreme, Mitchell Starc sent out a cold reminder that old-school skills still win matches.

The Australian seamer spearheaded a subtle but significant resurgence — one where, for a change, the batters were huffing and puffing but the bowler tilted the balance in his team's favour and emerging on top.

Modern cricket has, on many instances, relied too much on variations, mystery balls, edgy bowling actions and match-ups, Starc brought back the basics — swing it, rely on the good-old yorker and back your skills. The result was a memorable win for Delhi Capitals after a Super Over.

"I just backed my execution, running in with a clear plan. Sometimes it comes off, a bit of luck goes a long way," said Starc, who finished with 1/36, after the match. "I've played long enough for everyone to know what I'd do, but if I execute then I know I'll get by." Reverse swing may have faded, but against Rajasthan Royals, it emerged again. And thanks to Starc, it has given bowlers the belief that it can become a dangerous weapon in the game again.