When will Mitchell Starc play for DC in IPL 2026? Revealed
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Mitchell Starc has missed both games for Delhi Capitals in IPL 2026.
Delhi Capitals (DC) have started Indian Premier League (IPL) 2026 strongly, earning four points from their first two matches to sit third in the standings, trailing the leaders only on Net Run Rate. Captain Axar Patel has managed the squad well, leading a notable six-wicket comeback against Lucknow Super Giants (LSG) after the team collapsed to 26 for four while chasing 142.
DC stuck with the same XI for their second match against Mumbai Indians (MI), showing the stability. However, the absence of Mitchell Starc remains a major talking point. Retained for ₹11.75 crore, the Australian spearhead’s delayed arrival continues to spark questions about how much stronger the bowling unit will look once he joins.
Mitchell Starc to miss at least 3 more games for DC in IPL 2026
The Aussie quick suffered a shoulder and elbow injury during the recent 2025-26 Ashes at home. While Starc has not yet revealed the exact date to join the franchise, he has revealed that he is giving his all to join the team back as soon as he gets the green signal from Cricket Australia.
Reports TOI suggest he will miss at least three more matches, keeping him out of action through mid-April. Cricket Australia are carefully managing his workload given the heavy international schedule ahead, which includes 21 Tests between August 2026 and July 2027.
Starc recently used Instagram to address misinformed media commentary, while also apologising to DC fans for missing the start of the tournament. Head coach Hemang Badani confirmed Starc has resumed bowling but noted the franchise is waiting on a formal No Objection Certificate (NOC) from Cricket Australia. For now, Lungi Ngidi, Dushmantha Chameera, and Kyle Jamieson are leading the pace attack.
In IPL 2025, the left-arm pacer took 14 wickets in 10 matches, including a career-best five for 35 against Sunrisers Hyderabad. He was the first overseas pacer to take a five-wicket haul for the Delhi franchise. With 65 career IPL wickets at a strike rate of 15.40, his track record shows why DC are eager for his return. While the current attack is doing its job, the team will undoubtedly find another gear once Starc is cleared to play.
Why is Mitchell Starc missing the start of the IPL 2026 season?
He is recovering from shoulder and elbow injuries sustained during the 2025-26 Ashes series and is awaiting a formal fitness clearance from Cricket Australia.
When is Starc expected to join the Delhi Capitals squad?
Current reports suggest he will miss at least three more matches, with a potential return to the lineup in mid-April.
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