IPL 2025: Stubbs Credits Batting Triumph to Major Mental Transition

New Delhi, March 16 (NationPress) After making only four appearances for the Mumbai Indians during the IPL 2022 and 2023 seasons, many were uncertain about what Tristan Stubbs would bring to the Delhi Capitals (DC) following his acquisition in the auction prior to the 2024 season. However, Stubbs seamlessly integrated into the team, establishing himself as their designated finisher and becoming their second-highest run-scorer in IPL 2024, accumulating 378 runs at an impressive strike rate of 190.90 and an average of 54.

He captivated audiences by demonstrating his ability to score runs effortlessly, excelling with his pull, sweep, slog, and reverse shots.

Since then, Stubbs has enjoyed a flourishing career in international cricket with South Africa, participating in the 2024 T20 World Cup final and securing Test centuries against Sri Lanka and Bangladesh. This led to a retention by DC for Rs 10 crore and a total of 232 runs during the SA20 2025 season.

In a round-table discussion arranged by the franchise, when asked by IANS about the driving force behind his remarkable batting performance over the last year, Stubbs credited it to a significant mental shift.

"It was a big mental thing; I was doing some foolish or unwise things out in the middle. I learned how to manage my emotions under pressure, and now I hope to continue learning and applying this in crucial moments," he remarked.

In IPL 2024, Stubbs' strike rate in the final overs (16-20) was an incredible 297.33, much of which stemmed from his dedication to refining his power-hitting abilities. "Yes, it’s quite significant. I enjoy practicing range hitting just to witness the ball clear the boundary, more than anything, and to find my swing," he stated.

"Naturally, transitioning through formats is my first priority when I switch to the T20 training group. I focus on regaining my swing and then progress from there," he elaborated.

For an overseas player aiming for substantial runs on flat Indian pitches, mastering spin is crucial. This is something Stubbs has adapted to during his three IPL stints in India.

"The game here (in India) is quite distinct. There's a lot of spin, and you must excel at playing spin. Sometimes, you need to have a plan B and C because plan A might not work that day. It’s about having various options and being able to commit to them if you believe they're the right choice," he explained.

"Occasionally, the pitches can liberate you; sometimes, you glance at the scoreboard and feel you need to score more than necessary. But it's about striking a balance when you're out there thinking you need 20 an over, realizing you can actually achieve it with maybe two sixes and a couple of fours. Until you're in the moment, it always feels like a long way off."

Stubbs is one of the few cricketers capable of bowling and keeping wickets. When asked whether he prefers keeping or batting, he replied, "In South Africa, I truly enjoy keeping because you can stand quite far back, and the ball comes through nicely. I don’t think I’ll appreciate it as much when the ball is spinning all the time."

As IPL 2025 approaches, DC has appointed a new captain, Axar Patel, and Stubbs expressed confidence in the all-rounder's ability to lead the team to victory. "Having him on the team is a tremendous advantage. He is among the finest players around right now," he stated.

"He captained the match last year (against RCB when Rishabh Pant was sidelined due to a slow over-rate offense), and he maintained a calm demeanor in the middle, instilling a sense of calm in the bowlers. I hope he can do the same this year, and we can draw energy from him," he continued.

Despite his numerous achievements in cricket, Stubbs remains committed to staying connected with those who have influenced his journey to becoming the cricketer he is today. One such individual is Mike Smith, who recognized his talent while serving as the Director of Cricket at Grey High School in Gqeberha.

Impressed by Julian Wood's power-hitting coaching techniques, Smith guided a young Stubbs in developing the power-hitting skills that have left a lasting impression on everyone whenever he steps onto the field, whether for DC, the Proteas, or Sunrisers Eastern Cape.

"It has been significant. I still speak to him quite frequently. He was my coach in school, and later at varsity, I sought his guidance. Throughout my career, whenever I'm experiencing challenges, I reach out to him for support. He has played a crucial role in my journey," Stubbs concluded.