Punjab Kings' Xavier Bartlett Sets Unwanted IPL Record Against Delhi Capitals

Bartlett's Unfortunate Milestone

During the IPL 2026 match held at Arun Jaitley Stadium in New Delhi, Xavier Bartlett from Punjab Kings achieved an undesirable milestone. He allowed 69 runs in just four overs while managing to secure a key wicket of Nitish Rana. His economy rate soared to 17.20, significantly contributing to Delhi Capitals surpassing the 260-run mark for the first time in IPL history.

Record-Breaking Bowling Figures

Bartlett's figures of 1/69 now stand as the worst bowling record for a PBKS player in IPL. He surpassed Mujeeb Ur Rahman's previous record of 0/66 against Sunrisers Hyderabad in the 2019 season. Arshdeep Singh follows with a record of 1/66, which he achieved against Mumbai Indians in the 2023 season.

Dominance of Delhi Capitals' Batting

In the match, Delhi Capitals, led by an impressive unbeaten 152 from KL Rahul and a solid 91 from Nitish Rana, completely dismantled the Punjab bowling lineup, finishing with a score of 264/2 after choosing to bat first.

The innings started steadily for Delhi Capitals. Although PBKS managed to dismiss Pathum Nissanka early, a missed catch of Rahul by Shashank Singh proved detrimental as Rahul went on to dominate the Punjab bowlers. He reached his sixth IPL century in just 47 balls, while Rana provided explosive support with his 91 runs, including a remarkable 28-run over against Bartlett. The pair maintained a relentless scoring pace, pushing DC past 200 runs in just 16 overs, despite attempts from PBKS bowlers Arshdeep Singh, Marcus Stoinis, and Yuzvendra Chahal.

Despite Rana's late dismissal, DC finished strongly, adding nine runs in the final over to set a daunting target. The Punjab Kings bowlers faced challenges throughout the match, with only Arshdeep and Bartlett managing to take wickets in an otherwise one-sided batting performance.