Australia fast bowler Mitchell Starc has shared an official statement about his availability for IPL 2026. The left-arm pacer confirmed that he is currently dealing with shoulder and elbow injuries and is working on recovery before joining the Delhi Capitals (DC) squad.
Delhi Capitals will begin their IPL 2026 campaign against Lucknow Super Giants on April 1 at the Ekana Cricket Stadium in Lucknow. However, Starc may miss the early matches as he continues rehabilitation.
Starc Responds to Media Reports
Mitchell Starc spoke out after several reports questioned his commitment to Delhi Capitals. He said that some opinions circulating in the media were inaccurate and based on misinformation about his physical condition.
Starc explained that he is currently rehabbing and managing injuries in his shoulder and elbow. According to him, the full extent of the problem was not clear during the Australian summer.
He also mentioned that some commentators have made strong claims about his IPL participation and presented their opinions as facts.
Starc Apologises to Delhi Capitals Fans
Starc also acknowledged that his delayed arrival could affect the team. He apologized to Delhi Capitals supporters and admitted that the timing of his absence is not ideal for the franchise.
He confirmed that he remains committed to playing for DC and is regularly communicating with the team management. Starc said he will try to return and join the squad as soon as he receives medical clearance.
Why Starc Is Important for Delhi Capitals
Mitchell Starc played an important role for Delhi Capitals last season. His pace and experience made him one of the key bowlers in the team.
He finished as DC’s second-highest wicket-taker in the previous season.
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Starc’s Key IPL Numbers for Delhi Capitals
| Statistic | Record |
|---|---|
| Matches | 11 |
| Wickets | 14 |
| IPL Auction Price | ₹11.75 crore |
| Best Bowling Performance | 5/35 vs SRH |
| Team Ranking | Second-highest wicket-taker for DC |
During a memorable match against Sunrisers Hyderabad, Starc produced a brilliant spell of 5 wickets for 35 runs in just 3.4 overs. That performance made him the first fast bowler to take a five-wicket haul for Delhi Capitals in IPL history.
Starc Played Full Ashes Series Before IPL
Before IPL 2026, Starc represented Australia in the 2025-26 Ashes series. He played all five Test matches, showing that he remained active at the highest level of international cricket.
Delhi Capitals were hoping to use his experience and pace strength this season as well.
Starc’s Recent International Activity
| Tournament | Participation |
|---|---|
| 2025-26 Ashes | Played all five Test matches |
Even though he recently played international cricket, the injury setback has delayed his arrival in the IPL.
Delhi Capitals Pace Attack Without Starc
With Starc unavailable for the early part of the season, Delhi Capitals will rely on other fast bowlers in their squad.
South African pacer Lungi Ngidi is expected to lead the bowling attack. He will be supported by a strong group of fast bowlers.
DC Fast Bowling Options
| Player | Role |
|---|---|
| Lungi Ngidi | Lead pacer |
| Dushmantha Chameera | Fast bowler |
| Kyle Jamieson | Fast bowler |
| Mukesh Kumar | Indian pace option |
| Khaleel Ahmed | Left-arm pacer |
| T Natarajan | Death overs specialist |
This group will need to perform well until Starc returns to strengthen the bowling attack.
What DC Expect From Starc’s Return
Delhi Capitals hope that Mitchell Starc can rejoin the team once he is fully fit. His presence would give the team a major boost with the new ball and during the middle overs.
The franchise plans to stay in close contact with him during his recovery and bring him back into the squad when he is ready.
Until then, DC will focus on managing their bowling resources and preparing for the early matches of IPL 2026.
Fans will now be waiting to see when Starc can return to the field and add his pace and experience to the Delhi Capitals lineup.
