CricketMAN2 brings you the latest update from IPL 2026. Mitchell Starc has joined Delhi Capitals, but he will not play in the upcoming match against Punjab Kings as the team is taking a careful approach to his return.
Starc joins DC but will not play yet
Delhi Capitals confirmed Starc’s arrival on April 25 through a social media post. The team welcomed him with excitement, but also made it clear that he will not be rushed back into action.
Starc had a heavy workload recently during the Ashes, where he bowled long spells in a five-match Test series. After that, he needed proper rest before returning to competitive cricket.
Injury and recovery update
After the Ashes, Starc played in the Big Bash League 2025-26. During that time, he suffered a fall while trying to stop a catch and faced pain in his shoulder and elbow.
Because of this injury, he stayed away from IPL action for a long time. Cricket Australia later cleared him to play, but Delhi Capitals decided to take a safe approach and give him more time.
During his absence, bowlers like Mukesh Kumar, T Natarajan, and Lungi Ngidi handled the pace attack well and kept the team balanced.
Starc comeback plan
Delhi Capitals are planning Starc’s return step by step. He will first focus on training and match fitness before playing any game.
He is expected to make his IPL 2026 debut against Rajasthan Royals on May 1 if everything goes well. The team wants him fully fit for the final stage of the tournament.
For now, Lungi Ngidi will continue to lead the pace attack. He has taken 7 wickets in 6 matches this season.
DC vs PBKS match details
Delhi Capitals will face Punjab Kings in Match 35 of IPL 2026 on April 25 at Arun Jaitley Stadium, Delhi.
Also See :Top 5 Best Test Innings of Sachin Tendulkar That Fans Still Remember
Team Form Overview
| Team | Matches | Wins | No Result |
|---|---|---|---|
| Delhi Capitals | 6 | 3 | 0 |
| Punjab Kings | 6 | 5 | 1 |
Delhi Capitals are currently sixth on the points table with 3 wins from 6 matches. They lost their last game but have shown decent form at home.
Punjab Kings are in strong form. They are unbeaten so far with 5 wins and 1 no result, and will look to continue their winning streak.
What Starc’s return means for DC
Mitchell Starc is a key player for Delhi Capitals. In IPL 2025, he took 14 wickets in 11 matches, including a five-wicket haul against Sunrisers Hyderabad.
His return will strengthen DC’s bowling, especially in the death overs. His experience and pace can make a big difference in close matches.
The team is focusing on long-term fitness instead of rushing him back. Until then, the current bowling unit will continue to handle responsibilities.
Final update
Mitchell Starc will not play in the DC vs PBKS match, but his return is expected soon. Delhi Capitals are planning his comeback carefully so that he is fully fit for the important matches later in IPL 2026.
Fans can expect him back in action from May, which will be a big boost for DC in the second half of the tournament.
