Delhi Capitals: Mitchell Starc to miss next three matches due to injury

In a significant update for Delhi Capitals (DC) in the ongoing Indian Premier League (IPL) 2026 season, premier fast bowler Mitchell Starc has been ruled out of the next three matches. Starc, who missed the team's first two opening encounters, will continue to remain on the sidelines as he recovers from physical setbacks. 75 crore, the Australian left-arm pacer is yet to make his appearance on the field this season. According to team sources, his recovery process is taking longer than initially anticipated.

Medical Update on Double Injury

The primary reason for Mitchell Starc's extended absence is a dual injury concern. The pacer is currently nursing both shoulder and elbow injuries simultaneously. For a fast bowler of Starc's caliber, these injuries are particularly sensitive as they directly impact the bowling mechanics, including the arm speed and the point of release, while the medical team is closely monitoring his progress, ensuring that he undergoes a comprehensive rehabilitation program to prevent any long-term damage. The combination of these two injuries has necessitated a cautious approach from the Delhi Capitals management regarding his return to competitive cricket.

Impact on Upcoming Schedule

Delhi Capitals are scheduled to face several high-profile teams in their upcoming fixtures, while starc will be unavailable for the match against Gujarat Titans on 8 April. On top of that, he will miss the high-stakes encounter against Chennai Super Kings on 11 April and the match against Royal Challengers Bengaluru on 18 April. These three matches are crucial for maintaining the momentum that Delhi Capitals have built after winning their first two games against Lucknow Super Giants and Mumbai Indians. The absence of an experienced international campaigner like Starc means the team will have to rely on its existing bowling depth for these key clashes.

Expected Timeline for Return

Current projections suggest that Mitchell Starc might rejoin the Delhi Capitals squad around 20 April. If his rehabilitation stays on track and he clears the necessary fitness tests, there is a strong possibility of him featuring in the playing XI for the match against Sunrisers Hyderabad on 21 April. The team management is hopeful that his return will bolster the pace attack during the mid-stage of the tournament. Starc's ability to provide early breakthroughs and his expertise in the death overs are seen as vital components for the team's strategy in the latter half of the league stage.

Performance of the Current Pace Attack

In the absence of Mitchell Starc, the responsibility of leading the Delhi Capitals' pace attack has fallen on Mukesh Kumar, Lungi Ngidi, and T. Natarajan, while these bowlers have successfully stepped up in the first two matches, contributing Notably to the team's unbeaten start in IPL 2026. Mukesh Kumar has provided stability with the new ball, while T. Natarajan has been effective with his trademark yorkers in the final overs. Lungi Ngidi's pace and bounce have added a different dimension to the attack. The team is expected to continue with this combination for the next three matches, maintaining faith in the current bowling unit's ability to deliver results.