New Delhi: Delhi Capitals on Monday provided an important update on the availability of Australian pace spearhead Mitchell Starc ahead of the Indian Premier League (IPL) 2026, with the franchise still awaiting clearance from Cricket Australia.Go beyond limits with our YouTube channel. Subscribe now!During the pre-season media interaction, DC head coach Hemang Badani confirmed that there has been no formal discussion regarding Starc’s participation yet. “There has been no update from Cricket Australia. [Mitchell] Starc will let you know once things are cleared,” Badani said, indicating that the situation is still uncertain.
While unclear, DC captain Akshar Patel sounded more optimistic, expressing confidence that the left-arm quick could join the squad anytime soon. “Starc can come anytime, there is no specific date. If he doesn’t come, there is no temptation to replace the left-armer with a left-armer. Natarajan is doing well and is 100% fit. Starc and impact player if required,” Aksar said. He also reiterated his reservations about the impact player rule, adding that as an all-rounder he is not entirely in favor of it.Backing Axar’s optimism, DC’s director of cricket Venugopal Rao offered a positive outlook on Starc’s eventual arrival. “Starc is coming. Just waiting for clearance from Cricket Australia,” he said, adding that the delay was procedural rather than a long-term concern.Badani further explained that Starc’s availability depends on fitness and workload management. “It depends on when he bowls and gets clearance,” he added, pointing out that the final call rests with Cricket Australia’s medical and management team.Starc may miss DC’s opening matches.Starc, 36, is expected to miss at least the opening stages of the tournament, with Cricket Australia reportedly keeping a close eye on his workload. Given his role as the pace spearhead of the team, his absence, even if temporary, will be a crucial factor for Delhi Capitals.The left-arm pacer was DC’s second-highest wicket-taker last season, picking up 14 wickets in 11 matches. He was retained by the franchise after hiring him for Rs 11.75 crore in the auction.Delhi Capitals will begin their IPL 2026 campaign against Lucknow Supergiants at the Ekna Cricket Stadium on April 1.
