Jamieson Eyes New-Ball Role with Delhi Capitals.webp

New Delhi, April 6 – New Zealand fast bowler Kyle Jamieson has yet to get a chance to play for Delhi Capitals (DC) in the 2026 IPL. However, the tall pacer stated that when the opportunity arises, he anticipates taking on the responsibility of bowling with the new ball, although he admits that his specific role within the team is still being defined by the team's coaching staff.

After featuring for Royal Challengers Bengaluru (RCB) in the 2021 IPL, Jamieson returned to the tournament as a replacement for Lockie Ferguson for Punjab Kings. During the latter stages of the competition, Jamieson took five wickets in four matches at an economy rate of 9.8, including a three-wicket haul against RCB in the final.

"Not really – simply because I haven't been in the team for the first couple of games, so you don't really have a clear idea of where you fit in. I think that comes once you're part of the starting eleven – if you're a part of the 11 or 12 – then you can figure out the best way to use your skills and those of your bowlers.

"So, there's nothing set in stone. But if I do get a chance to play, then I'm sure that will happen," Jamieson said in response to a question.

DC has won both of its opening matches, and Jamieson has praised Axar Patel's captaincy, noting that Patel has effectively managed the bowlers and maintained a calm atmosphere. This has created a positive and joyful team environment, with the players feeling confident, particularly with the impressive young batter, Sameer Rizvi, contributing to crucial victories.

When asked about Delhi pacer Mukesh Kumar's post-match comment after their six-wicket win against Mumbai Indians – about drawing inspiration from Josh Hazlewood's consistent ability to bowl at Test-match lengths – Jamieson fully endorsed this view.

"I think what Mukesh was referring to – that simplicity – is something we're all striving for. You all have your strengths, and you're trying to stick to them. I think that's something that Hazlewood has done well over a long period, and Mukesh did it brilliantly in the last game: how can you have that consistency and resolve to hold firm?

"When batsmen are hitting boundaries, it's easy to get under pressure and think you need to change your approach. It's almost a matter of character to be able to say, 'No, I'm going to stick to my strengths.'

"I think that gives me the best chance of getting batsmen out and then holding firm during the powerplay. It's not always going to work, but I think it's a key strategy," he elaborated.

For Jamieson, who has previously played all five T20Is for New Zealand against South Africa, the motivation for participating in the IPL extends beyond simply getting a spot or defining his role. Instead, he views the tournament as an unparalleled opportunity for self-improvement – a highly competitive environment where the pressure is intense, and the rewards in terms of growth are equally significant.

"In terms of the IPL, for me, it's the premier tournament in the world. You always want to be a part of it. You learn so much. Even after playing a fair amount of cricket, I'm constantly trying to learn and improve.

"So, this is the best environment for that, without a doubt. You're trying to give yourself the best chance to develop your skills. It's a platform to test your abilities in the most demanding situations. It's a combination of all those things," he concluded.
 
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axar patel bowling cricket cricket performance delhi capitals indian premier league ipl 2026 josh hazlewood kyle jamieson mukesh kumar new zealand player development sport t20 cricket team roles
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