In a disheartening update for IPL enthusiasts, Delhi Capitals have been hit hard just before IPL 2026 gets underway. Prolific Australian quick Mitchell Starc is set to sit out the initial fixtures, throwing the franchise’s plans into disarray.
The news comes straight from Cricket Australia, which revealed Starc’s exclusion from the early stages pending fitness clearance. Over the last 12 months, the veteran’s schedule has been grueling, featuring full Ashes participation and Big Bash commitments. His over-bowling in Tests – second only to Siraj among pacers – has necessitated this cautious approach.
Starc’s prowess in swinging the new ball and his death-over mastery make him indispensable for DC. Acquired at a premium of 11.75 crore in the 2025 auction, he delivered 14 scalps last IPL, often turning games single-handedly even if his economy suffered.
This isn’t an isolated issue. SRH’s Pat Cummins and RCB’s Josh Hazlewood are also unavailable early on for their teams, reflecting a broader trend of workload management for Australia’s top fast bowlers.
Delhi’s camp now faces tough choices: bolster the seam attack with domestic talents or overseas backups? The powerplay dynamics shift dramatically without Starc, potentially exposing batting vulnerabilities against opposition openers.
While optimism lingers for a swift Starc comeback, Capitals’ strategists are already brainstorming contingencies. IPL 2026 promises drama from the outset, with this blow amplifying the intrigue for Delhi’s campaign.