Delhi Capitals are still waiting for clarity on Mitchell Starc’s availability for the rest of the IPL 2026 campaign. Ahead of their match versus the Gujarat Titans at Arun Jaitley Stadium in New Delhi on Tuesday, Delhi bowling coach Munaf Patel said Cricket Australia’s medical team will have the final say on when the left-arm fast bowler can arrive in India. Patel also indicated that he does not yet have a timetable for when Starc might be fit enough to take the field for the franchise.
Prior to the start of IPL 2026, it was already known that Starc would miss the opening phase of the tournament. At the time, there was an understanding that Cricket Australia would manage his workload while factoring in his international commitments. However, Starc later confirmed that he is dealing with an injury and is hopeful of linking up with Delhi’s camp as soon as he recovers.
Starc has played all five Ashes Tests against England in December 2025 and January 2026, before featuring in a few matches for the Sydney Sixers in the Big Bash League. Yet despite that run, he has not taken part in any competitive cricket for nearly three months. When Patel was asked when Starc is expected to join the Delhi group, he said there is no fresh information at present and that only the Australian doctors and physios will be able to confirm the next steps.
“No bigger bowler than Starc”
Patel also sounded emphatic in his praise for Starc, suggesting that he is the standout pace option in the league and that only Jasprit Bumrah comes close. The bowling coach noted that Starc has not been a headline talking point right now, largely because Delhi have started the season strongly with two wins. Still, Patel stressed that Starc’s role will be significant once he is available.
“We have won two matches, hence it seems like we are not missing Mitchell Starc. No one is missing him because we are doing well, but he has a big role to play. He is one of the best bowlers in the world. He will always be a big bowler. I don’t think there is anyone bigger than him in the IPL as far as bowling is concerned. I think you can only compare Jasprit Bumrah with him,” Patel told reporters during Tuesday’s pre-match press conference.
He added that Starc’s experience is a major advantage, particularly with the new ball, and said Delhi are monitoring his recovery closely. Patel further explained that he regularly speaks with people in the know regarding Starc’s fitness and expected arrival.
Delhi Capitals, led by Axar Patel, have begun the tournament with victories over Lucknow Super Giants and Mumbai Indians in their first two matches. The team currently sits in the top four, and the upcoming clash against Gujarat presents another opportunity to strengthen their position as the season develops.
