Major update on Mitchell Starc’s joining date with Delhi Capitals in IPL 2026

Mitchell Starc picked up elbow and shoulder issues ahead of the IPL 2026.

Mitchell Starc’s status has been a key talking point during the Indian Premier League (IPL) 2026, particularly with Delhi Capitals (DC) managing their pace attack without one of their premier overseas bowlers. The left-arm quick has not featured in the initial phase of the tournament, leading to continued focus on his availability.

The Australian pacer had picked up elbow and shoulder issues during a heavy international schedule, including the Ashes 2025-26. These injuries required a period of recovery and rehabilitation, which ruled him out of the early matches of IPL 2026.

Delhi Capitals have had to adjust their bowling combinations in his absence, relying on other pace options while maintaining balance in their playing XI. The team has managed its resources accordingly during this phase of the tournament.

Mitchell Starc to join Delhi Capitals ahead of clash against Rajasthan Royals for IPL 2026

As per the latest report in ESPNCricinfo, Mitchell Starc has now been cleared to return and is set to join the Delhi Capitals squad soon. The clearance comes following a medical assessment after his recovery from elbow and shoulder injuries.

He is expected to travel to India and rejoin the squad ahead of their upcoming fixture against Rajasthan Royals (RR) on May 1. However, his participation in that match will depend on final fitness checks and how he responds to training workloads after arriving.

His inclusion will provide a significant boost to the Delhi Capitals’ bowling attack, particularly in the powerplay and death overs. Starc’s ability to swing the new ball at pace and execute yorkers in the final overs adds a dimension that the team has lacked in his absence.

Before his injury, the Australian pacer had been one of the key overseas signings for the franchise, bringing experience across formats and conditions. In his absence, Lungi Ngidi has done the job incredibly well and DC would be hoping that the combination of two will take them to more wins in the league and end their title drought.

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