Delhi Capitals have got a big boost as their star overseas pacer, Mitchell Starchave officially joined the camp ahead of the clash against Punjab Kings.Starc’s arrival in IPL 2026 was delayed due to persistent shoulder and elbow injuries. These problems stemmed from a heavy workload during the Ashes series (where he bowled over 153 overs) and were exacerbated by a heavy fall while diving for a catch during the Big Bash League (BBL) in late January. Starc suffered persistent pain as he attempted to return to bowling in February, necessitating a lengthy rehabilitation period in Sydney.After his recovery, Cricket Australia officially allowed him to join Delhi Capitals on 23 April 2026. In his absence, Delhi Capitals’ pace attack was led by Mukesh Kumar, T Natarajan, and Langi Ngidi.i IPL 2025, Starc represented Delhi Capitals after being bought for Rs 11.75 crore in the mega auction. He was one of the franchise’s standout performers, taking 14 wickets in 11 matches. He also claimed his maiden IPL five-wicket haul (5/35) against Sunrisers Hyderabad in Visakhapatnam, becoming the first foreign pacer in DC’s history to achieve the feat. However, he did not complete the season, opting to return to Australia to prepare for the World Test Championship final.
Will he play against Punjab Kings today?
Starc is unlikely to feature in the immediate home match against Punjab Kings on April 25. Instead, he will play his first match of IPL 2026 for Delhi Capitals on May 1. Rajasthan Royals. Before returning to match action, he will undergo a brief training and adaptation phase with the DC support staff to gradually increase his bowling intensity after a three-month injury layoff.Barring any setback, Starc will be available for the remainder of the season, including the final league matches and the playoffs. Meanwhile, Delhi Capitals’ pace attack will continue under the leadership of Ngidi, who has taken seven wickets in the first six matches.
