Mitchell Starc Availability Confirmed for Delhi Capitals in IPL 2026

The Delhi Capitals (DC) have finally received the long-awaited boost they were hoping for. On Thursday, April 23, 2026, Cricket Australia (CA) granted official clearance to experienced left-arm pacer Mitchell Starc, allowing him to return to action in the ongoing IPL 2026 season. The 11.75 crore marquee signing, brought in during the mega auction, had been forced to sit out the opening month of the tournament due to an elbow issue along with recurring shoulder niggles picked up during the Australian home summer.

Mitchell Starc IPL 2026 Debut Update: When Will He Play for DC?

After several weeks of speculation and frustration over circulating rumours about his fitness, Mitchell Starc’s return is finally on the horizon. The left-arm speedster is likely to make his IPL 2026 debut for Delhi Capitals on May 1, 2026, when they take on Rajasthan Royals at the Wankhede Stadium.

Starc is expected to arrive in India over the weekend, following which he will undergo a short three-day acclimatisation and training phase with the DC coaching and medical staff. Although there was optimism for an earlier comeback, the team management and medical unit have opted for a cautious approach to ensure the veteran pacer remains fully fit for the rest of the IPL season as well as the upcoming international commitments.