Mitchell Starc's IPL 2026 Availability in Doubt Amid Injury Concerns

Australian Fast Bowlers' Availability Issues

As the IPL 2026 approaches, Australian fast bowlers are creating challenges for their teams regarding their participation. Mitchell Starc, who has been absent from competitive cricket since the Ashes in 2025, will not be available for the Delhi Capitals. Cricket Australia (CA) has yet to grant him clearance to participate in the tournament, alongside Pat Cummins and Josh Hazlewood, who have faced injury issues. While Cummins and Hazlewood have documented injury concerns, Starc's situation is less clear. Recently, his wife, Alyssa Healy, a former captain of the Australian women's team, provided insights into Starc's condition.

In an Instagram post featuring Mitchell Starc on a golf course, a fan of the Delhi Capitals expressed frustration, noting that both Hazlewood and Cummins are traveling with their IPL teams despite their injuries, while Starc is absent. The fan remarked, “This is so unfair to us DC fans that Hazelwood and Cummins, despite being injured, will be available for their teams but you won’t be.” Healy responded, clarifying that her husband is indeed injured and unable to bowl, which prevents him from participating in the initial matches of IPL 2026. She stated, “Probably cause he’s injured mate…if he can’t bowl how’s he supposed to play?! If he was fully fit he’d be there…”

DC Head Coach Discusses Starc's Situation

During a recent press conference, Delhi Capitals' head coach Hemang Badani confirmed that Mitchell Starc would join the team once he receives a No Objection Certificate (NOC) from Cricket Australia. He mentioned that Starc had bowled a few days prior, but without CA's approval, the franchise has limited options. Badani stated, “Once we get an NOC, we will know when Starc is joining us. We are in constant touch with CA. He had a bowl a few days back. Unless CA signs off on him saying he is fit to play, there is very little a franchise can do.”