Delhi Capitals bowling coach Munaf Patel said the team is not feeling Mitchell Starc’s absence as they have won the opening two matches without him. Starc is currently injured and undergoing rehabilitationwith plans to join the team later in the tournament.
Starc was a key player in Australia’s Ashes series triumph over England, featuring in all five matches, taking 31 wickets in 153.1 overs. He also featured in the final stages of the Big Bash League for the Sydney Sixers. Australia are scheduled to play 21 Tests in the coming year, Cricket Australia is carefully managing Starc’s workload.
In the pre-match press conference ahead of the clash with Gujarat Titans, Munaf acknowledged that Starc’s absence could be felt if Delhi Capitals’ performance dips.
“Right now we have won two games, so we don’t feel Starc’s absence. But if they don’t perform in the upcoming games, that depends,” said Munaf.
Munaf praised Starc as one of the best bowlers in the IPL and compared him to Jasprit Bumrah. He added that he often looks for updates on Starc’s return.
“He is one of the best bowlers in the world. Right now everyone is saying yes, we don’t miss him because we are winning. But he is our best bowler. And I think there is no one better than Starc in the IPL. Bumrah is there who you can compare with him. You can see how much experience, how fast he bowls, swings at 140 plus with the new ball,” said Munaf.
ANY NEW STARC UPDATES?
Regarding Starc’s comeback, Munaf said there are no updates yet and he has to wait for information from Cricket Australia’s medical team.
“There has been no update so far from the Australian on-board physio, trainer or doctor,” Munaf said.
Starc took 14 wickets in 11 matches for Delhi Capitals in IPL 2025, including a crucial role in their Super Over win against Rajasthan Royals. So far in his IPL career, the Australian left-arm pacer has taken 65 wickets in 52 matches.
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Published on:
07 Apr 2026 19:26 IST
