Starc cleared for IPL 2026: Aussie pacer to join Delhi Capitals following injury recovery

New Delhi: Cricket Australia has cleared veteran fast bowler Mitchell Starc to resume competitive play, paving the way for the pacer to join the Delhi Capitals for the remainder of the Indian Premier League season.

Starc’s arrival in India follows a period of rehabilitation for elbow and shoulder injuries sustained during the Australian summer. The 36-year-old was previously instrumental in Australia’s 4-1 Ashes triumph, where he earned player-of-the-series honours after appearing in all five Tests, and subsequently competed in five fixtures for the Sydney Sixers in the Big Bash League.
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Team officials expect Starc to incrementally increase his bowling intensity upon arrival. He is currently scheduled to make his 2026 season debut on May 1 in a matchup against the Rajasthan Royals. Following that fixture, he will be available for the duration of Delhi's regular season and any ensuing playoff appearances, according to Cricket Australia.

Addressing Media Criticism

The left-armer’s return comes nearly a month after he took to social media to counter what he described as "heavily misinformed opinions" regarding his absence from the tournament. In a post on Instagram, Starc clarified that he was managing injuries the full extent of which had been unknown during the domestic summer.

"Despite the opinions and views of certain individuals with their platforms in and through the Indian media, I'm currently rehabbing and managing an injury in my shoulder and elbow of which I didn't know the extent of during the Australian summer," Starc wrote.

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He criticised commentators who "provided heavily misinformed opinions of players, preached them as facts, and claimed to know my body better than me." Starc apologised to the franchise and its supporters for the "disruptive" timing of the injury but reaffirmed his commitment to the team.

Delhi’s Current Standing

The Capitals currently hold a 3-3 record, placing them fifth in the league standings—the same position they occupied at the conclusion of the previous season. In Starc's absence, South African pacer Lungi Ngidi has led the bowling attack, claiming seven wickets in six games. Starc remains one of the franchise's most significant investments, having been retained this season for A$2 million (INR 11.75 crore).

Australian Pace Trio Returns

Starc is part of a broader return to fitness for Australia’s premier fast bowlers. Pat Cummins is slated to make his season debut for Sunrisers Hyderabad this Saturday, also facing Rajasthan. Cummins has been largely inactive since last July due to a back stress injury, but recent scans provided him with a clearance to bowl without restrictions.

Additionally, Josh Hazlewood has returned to IPL action after recovering from hamstring and Achilles injuries that forced him to miss the Ashes series. The recovery of the trio is a significant development for Cricket Australia as the national team prepares for a congested upcoming schedule.