Mitchell Starc's IPL 2026 Participation Uncertain as Delhi Capitals Await Clearance

Update on Mitchell Starc's Fitness Ahead of IPL 2026

Alyssa Healy, wife of Delhi Capitals bowler Mitchell Starc, has shared insights regarding his fitness as the IPL 2026 season approaches, starting on Saturday, March 28. The Capitals will kick off their campaign for the first IPL title against Lucknow Super Giants at Ekana Stadium on Wednesday, April 1.

As the opening match nears, there is still ambiguity surrounding Starc's involvement in IPL 2026. Head coach Hemang Badani mentioned that the team is waiting for a No Objection Certificate (NOC) from Cricket Australia to confirm Starc's availability, as the franchise has yet to receive any official word on when the Australian pacer will join the team.

Starc's last competitive game was in January during a Big Bash League match between Sydney Sixers and Perth Scorchers. He did not participate in the T20 World Cup 2026, having retired from T20 internationals to focus on Test and ODI formats.

Alyssa Healy Comments on Starc's IPL 2026 Status

With teammates Pat Cummins and Josh Hazlewood joining Sunrisers Hyderabad and Royal Challengers Bengaluru, respectively, both will miss initial matches due to injuries. Meanwhile, Starc has not yet arrived in India as the Delhi Capitals await clearance from Cricket Australia.

Frustration among Delhi Capitals fans was evident in response to Healy's Instagram post, with one fan expressing dissatisfaction that injured players like Hazlewood and Cummins would be available while Starc would not.

In her response, Healy clarified that Starc's participation hinges on his fitness, emphasizing that he is currently injured and may not be able to bowl.

Mitchell Starc's Impact on Delhi Capitals

Acquired for INR 11.75 crore during the IPL 2025 Mega Auction, Starc had a notable last season, taking 14 wickets, including a five-wicket haul, with an average of 26.14 and an economy rate of 10.17 across 11 matches. However, he opted out of the latter part of the season due to geopolitical tensions.

Starc's absence is a considerable setback for the Delhi Capitals, who are still waiting for his clearance. Known for his ability to take early wickets, Starc plays a crucial role in controlling the opposition's scoring and applying pressure.

Without him, the team will depend on other bowlers like Lungi Ngidi, T Natarajan, and Mukesh Kumar. The lack of Starc's expertise in death bowling, particularly his skill in executing yorkers and slower deliveries, will put additional pressure on the remaining pacers, especially T Natarajan, to perform in high-stakes situations.

Future Prospects for Starc in IPL 2026

It remains uncertain whether Mitchell Starc will be able to join the Delhi Capitals in the latter part of IPL 2026, as the team aims for their first tournament victory.