Mitchell Starc is set to rejoin the Indian Premier League 2026 season, with Cricket Australia officially clearing the left-arm quick to return to India—delivering a timely lift for Delhi Capitals.
Starc cleared after injury layoff, targets May 1 return
After weeks of uncertainty surrounding his availability, Starc has now been given the green light following recovery from elbow and shoulder injuries sustained during the Australian summer.
“Starc is expected to build up his workloads on the ground in India and is on track to make his debut for the 2026 season in Delhi’s May 1 match against Rajasthan Royals,” Cricket.com.au reported.
The 36-year-old is expected to link up with the Delhi squad shortly and could feature immediately in a crucial fixture against Rajasthan Royals—a game that may shape DC’s mid-season trajectory.
Injury timeline and Ashes workload key to delay
Starc’s delayed arrival stems from a heavy workload across formats. He played all five Tests in Australia’s 4-1 The Ashes triumph, earning Player of the Series honors, before briefly featuring in the Big Bash League for Sydney Sixers.
However, underlying elbow and shoulder issues forced him into a rehabilitation phase, ruling him out of the early IPL window.
His absence also sparked debate around overseas player commitments—criticism Starc addressed directly.
Starc hits back at criticism over IPL absence
In a candid social media response, Starc pushed back against narratives questioning his commitment to the IPL.
“Despite the opinions and views of certain individuals with their platforms in and through the Indian media, I’m currently rehabbing and managing an injury in my shoulder and elbow of which I didn’t know the extent of during the Australian summer,” Starc wrote on Instagram.
“These individuals have made some strong statements around involvement in the IPL and provided heavily misinformed opinions of players, preached them as facts, and claim to know my body better than me.
“With that said I do acknowledge this injury setback and timing is disruptive to the Delhi team and I apologise for that and to the fans for not being available for the early part of this season. I remain committed to join DC, are in continual communication updating the team, and will continue to do what I can to be available for DC asap.”
What Starc’s return means for Delhi Capitals’ campaign
Delhi Capitals currently sit mid-table with a 3-3 record, mirroring their inconsistent start from last season. In Starc’s absence, Lungi Ngidi has led the pace attack, claiming seven wickets in six matches.
Starc’s return is expected to significantly strengthen DC’s bowling unit, particularly in the powerplay and death overs—areas where his experience and left-arm angle provide a competitive edge.
The franchise had retained Starc for a reported $2 million (INR 11.75 crore), underlining his importance to their title ambitions.
Wider boost for Australia’s fast-bowling depth
Starc’s comeback also aligns with a broader return to fitness for Australia’s premier pace trio. Pat Cummins is set to make his IPL 2026 debut for Sunrisers Hyderabad, while Josh Hazlewood has already resumed action with Royal Challengers Bengaluru.
This is a significant development for Australia, which faces a demanding international calendar, including 20 Tests in the lead-up to the next ODI World Cup.
High-stakes return as IPL season intensifies
For Delhi Capitals, Starc’s return could prove pivotal as the tournament enters a decisive phase. With playoff spots still within reach but far from secure, the addition of a proven match-winner arrives at a critical juncture.
The May 1 clash against Rajasthan Royals now carries added intrigue—not just for the standings, but as the likely stage for one of the IPL’s biggest reinforcements this season.
