The 35th match of the Indian Premier League (IPL) 2026 delivered an absolute run-fest at the Arun Jaitley Stadium as the Delhi Capitals (DC) took on the undefeated
Punjab Kings (PBKS). Winning the toss and opting to bat first on a flat Delhi track, the Capitals' top order unleashed sheer carnage. Driven by explosive hitting in the powerplay and a relentless assault in the death overs, DC posted a mammoth total that left the Punjab Kings completely shell-shocked.
The short boundaries and lightning-fast outfield only amplified the misery for the PBKS bowling attack. Despite Punjab's solid form entering the game, Delhi's relentless aggression set a daunting tone, forcing the Kings' batters into a desperate, high-pressure run chase under the lights.
Xavier Bartlett's Forgettable Outing: A Bowler Under Fire
The biggest talking point of the match, however, was the disastrous spell by PBKS fast bowler Xavier Bartlett. Entrusted with bowling crucial overs in both the powerplay and the death, Bartlett found himself completely at the mercy of the Delhi Capitals' batsmen. Missing his lengths by mere inches on a batting paradise, Bartlett was consistently dispatched into the stands.
The Australian pacer ultimately ended up conceding a staggering number of runs, failing to pick up a wicket while being hit for multiple sixes in his four-over quota. It was a harsh reminder of how unforgiving T20 cricket can be for fast bowlers. Bartlett's figures instantly drew comparisons to the worst historical performances in the league, placing him in an unwanted club of bowlers who have been taken to the cleaners in a single IPL innings.
Top 5 Worst Bowling Spells in IPL History
When a bowler has an off day in the IPL, the damage can be historic. Based on records, here are the top ten most expensive bowling spells (most runs conceded in an innings) in IPL history:
1. Jofra Archer (0/76 in 4 overs)
2. Mohammad Shami (0/75 in 4 overs)
3. Will O'Rourke (2/74 in 4 overs)
4. Mohit Sharma (0/73 in 4 overs)
5. Basil Thampi (0/70 in 4 overs)
Xavier Bartlett's incredibly tough day at the office in the DC vs PBKS clash perfectly highlights the brutal evolution of modern-day T20 cricket. With flat pitches, impact player rules, and fearless batting approaches, even world-class bowlers are routinely facing the threat of conceding 60+ runs. For the Punjab Kings, the challenge now lies in regrouping their bowling unit, while the Delhi Capitals celebrate a monumental batting triumph.
