Mitchell Starc Cleared for IPL 2026, Set to Join Delhi Capitals Ahead of May 1 Clash

Premier Australia fast bowler Mitchell Starc has been cleared of his recent shoulder and elbow concerns and is set to travel to India on Friday, boosting Delhi Capitals ahead of their upcoming IPL 2026 fixture. The left-arm pacer is targeting a return to competitive action in DC’s match against Rajasthan Royals on May 1 in Jaipur.

The 36-year-old has been out of action since late January following a heavy workload during the The Ashes, where he delivered a standout performance, claiming 31 wickets at an average of 19.93 and earning Player of the Series honors. He bowled over 150 overs across five Tests before featuring in five matches for Sydney Sixers in the Big Bash League.

Starc’s injury originated during a BBL match against Perth Scorchers, where he landed awkwardly on his left shoulder and elbow while attempting a catch. Although he initially took time off in February, lingering soreness upon his return to bowling delayed his IPL arrival, leading to speculation about his absence. Starc later addressed the situation publicly, expressing frustration over what he described as “heavily misinformed opinions.”

Encouragingly, Starc has recently completed a week of pain-free bowling sessions in Sydney and is expected to undergo a gradual acclimatization process once he arrives in India. If his recovery continues smoothly, he should be available not only for the May 1 game but for the remainder of the IPL season.

Meanwhile, Australia captain Pat Cummins is also on track to make his IPL 2026 debut for Sunrisers Hyderabad, with a potential return slated for Saturday—coincidentally also against Rajasthan Royals in Jaipur. Cummins has been sidelined since December due to a lumbar stress injury, having played just one Test since July 2025.

The return of Starc, Cummins, and fellow pacer Josh Hazlewood marks a significant boost for Australia, with Cricket Australia carefully managing the trio’s workload ahead of a demanding international schedule. Australia is set to play up to 21 Tests between August 2026 and August 2027, followed by the ODI World Cup later that year.