Australian fast bowler Mitchell Starc has been cleared by Cricket Australia to feature in IPL 2026. The Delhi Capitals player is now expected to be available for their upcoming match against Rajasthan Royals.
The development comes as a timely boost for Delhi Capitals who have had a mixed start to the season. With three wins from six matches, DC sit mid-table and will be hoping that Starc’s return will add stability to their bowling attack.
Starc missed the opening phase of the tournament due to elbow and shoulder nipples picked up during the Australian summer. The absence led to questions about the availability of overseas players, prompting the left-hander to respond quickly to criticism.
“Despite the views and opinions of certain individuals with their platforms in and through the Indian media, I am currently rehabilitating and managing my shoulder and elbow injuries,” Starc said.
“These individuals have made some strong statements about their involvement in the IPL and have given heavily misinformed opinions of players, preaching them as fact and claiming to know my body better than I do,” he added.
The 36-year-old was last seen in action during the Big Bash League after a tough Ashes campaign where he played all five Tests and was named player of the series. Since then, he has focused on recovery and building fitness ahead of his return.
Starc was Delhi’s leading bowler last season, picking up 14 wickets in 11 matches. His ability to strike early and control the phases of the innings will be key to DC’s development in the second half of IPL 2026.
WHEN WILL STARC PLAY IN IPL 2026?
Starc is expected to make his IPL 2026 debut in the Delhi Capitals vs Rajasthan Royals match on May 1.
According to reports, he will first work on increasing his workload in India before returning to match action. Team management is likely to take a cautious approach to his comeback given his recent injury concerns.
Meanwhile, other Australian players are also returning to the IPL, with Pat Cummins set to play for Sunrisers Hyderabad and Josh Hazlewood already returning for Royal Challengers Bengaluru.
For Delhi Capitals, Starc’s return could be a defining moment in their campaign as they push for a place in the playoffs.
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Issued by:
Debodinna Chakraborty
Published on:
23 Apr 2026 12:42 IST
