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Mitchell Starc Set for IPL 2026 Return with Delhi Capitals After Injury

Australian fast bowler Mitchell Starc is set to join the Delhi Capitals for the IPL 2026 season after recovering from shoulder and elbow issues sustained in January. His return is potentially scheduled for their match against the Rajasthan Royals on May 1, following a week of pain-free bowling in Sydney. Starc's comeback is part of a broader return of key Australian pacers, including Pat Cummins and Josh Hazlewood, to the IPL. His availability will provide a significant boost to the Delhi Capitals' pace attack during the crucial final phase of the tournament.

Key Points: Mitchell Starc IPL 2026 Return Date with Delhi Capitals

  • Starc recovering from shoulder/elbow injury
  • Targeting May 1 return vs Rajasthan Royals
  • Completed pain-free bowling in Sydney
  • Boost for Delhi Capitals' playoff push
  • Part of key Australian pace trio returning
2 min read

Starc set for IPL 2026 return with Delhi Capitals after injury layoff

Australian pacer Mitchell Starc is set to join Delhi Capitals for IPL 2026 after recovering from shoulder and elbow injuries, targeting a May 1 return.

"He will undergo a period of acclimatisation and gradually increase his workload before becoming match-ready. - ESPN"

New Delhi, April 23

Australian fast bowler Mitchell Starc is poised to join Delhi Capitals for the Indian Premier League 2026 after recovering from shoulder and elbow issues, with a potential return earmarked for their clash against Rajasthan Royals on May 1.

The 36-year-old left-armer has been out of action since late January following a heavy workload during the Ashes, where he was named Player of the Series for claiming 31 wickets at an average of 19.93. Starc bowled over 150 overs across five Tests before featuring in five matches for the Sydney Sixers in the Big Bash League (BBL).

His last appearance came in a game against the Perth Scorchers, where he suffered a fall on his left shoulder and elbow while attempting a catch. Though he took a break in February, lingering soreness upon his return to bowling delayed his IPL arrival.

Initial uncertainty around his absence from India led Starc to clarify the situation publicly, expressing frustration at speculation regarding his fitness.

However, the pacer has since completed a week of pain-free bowling in Sydney and is expected to travel to India shortly, as per ESPN. He will undergo a period of acclimatisation and gradually increase his workload before becoming match-ready.

If his recovery continues without setbacks, Starc is likely to be available for the remainder of the IPL season, boosting Delhi Capitals' pace attack in the crucial phase of the tournament.

Meanwhile, fellow Australian quick and captain Pat Cummins is also set to play his first match of the IPL 2026 for Sunrisers Hyderabad (SRH) in Jaipur. Cummins has been sidelined since December due to a lumbar stress injury, having played only one Test during the Ashes cycle.

His compatriot, Josh Hazlewood, also returned for RCB after missing a few matches at the start of the season due to injury.

The impending returns of Starc, Cummins and Josh Hazlewood come as a significant boost for Cricket Australia, which has taken a cautious approach in managing its fast-bowling trio.

Australia faces a demanding international calendar ahead, including up to 21 Tests between August 2026 and August 2027, followed by the ODI World Cup later that year.

Starc's return to the squad will mean a big positive for Delhi Capitals, which is currently reeling at the fifth spot in the points table.

- ANI

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Reader Comments

P
Priya S
As a fan, I'm excited, but also a bit worried. Paying so much for a player who gets injured often is a big risk. Hope the management has a solid plan to manage his workload. We need him for the playoffs push!
R
Rohit P
Good to see him recovering. But let's be honest, the focus seems to be more on managing players for Australia's schedule. IPL is our premier tournament, and fans deserve players who are fully committed and available from the start.
S
Sarah B
The article mentions Cummins and Hazlewood too. It's like a mini Australian pace reunion in the IPL! Great for the quality of cricket. Hope all three stay fit and give us some fiery spells. 🏏
V
Vikram M
Finally some good news! Our bowling has been leaking runs in the last few overs. Starc's yorkers are legendary. If he hits form, we can definitely make it to the top 4. Come on Delhi!
K
Karthik V
Respectfully, I think franchises need to be smarter. Investing huge money in ageing overseas pacers with injury history takes opportunities away from talented Indian youngsters who are fit and hungry. Just my two paise.

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