Delhi Capitals have started their campaign strongly, winning their opening two games even without Mitchell Starc in the playing group. However, bowling coach Munaf Patel made it clear that the franchise is keen to welcome Starc into the squad as soon as possible, stressing that he is among the standout pace threats in the IPL. Starc is yet to receive his No Objection Certificate from Cricket Australia and is also managing a shoulder injury.
Ahead of Delhi Capitals’ match against Gujarat Titans, Patel said he has been monitoring Starc’s situation closely on a daily basis, waiting for confirmation on his availability. Speaking at the pre-match press conference on Tuesday, he explained that updates on the timing of Starc’s arrival are expected to come from multiple sides, including the Australian board and Starc’s support staff.
“I check in with people every day—asking about when he’ll be able to join, by when he’s expected, and what the exact details are—because he’s crucial for us as a lead bowler. Honestly, I’m asking the same questions every day. Right now, there’s no clear update on when he’ll come, since the information has to be provided by Cricket Australia, his physio, or his trainer,” Patel said.
Patel also acknowledged that the absence of Starc has not weighed heavily on the team so far, given the two victories. “We have won two games, so it hasn’t been felt,” he added, offering a lighter remark in the same interaction.
Turning more reflective, Patel underlined why Starc’s return matters should results demand it. “If we don’t perform, then it depends. He is one of the best in the world. There is no bigger bowler in the IPL than Starc. Jasprit Bumrah is the only one I can think of. He has so much experience and he swings it at 140 kmph or more with the new ball. I stay in touch with the team every day. Cricket Australia will update us. We need him as our main bowler,” Patel said.
Patel further shared that he is enjoying his day-to-day work with Delhi’s fast-bowling resources, naming Lungi Ngidi, T Natarajan and Aquib Nabi as players he has been spending time with. He said the coaching environment has been productive while the squad navigates Starc’s delayed availability.
When asked about fast bowlers who regularly operate at 150 kmph and often end up sidelined due to injury, Patel responded with a cautionary perspective. “The guys who bowl at 150 are not playing. If they don’t play, they will remain injured. We come from a system that the more you bowl, the more rhythm you build. When you’re injured and out of rhythm, you’ll naturally be more prone to getting injured again,” he said.
