IPL 2026: Delhi Capitals awaiting update on Mitchell Starc's availability, says Munaf Patel

Delhi Capitals bowling coach Munaf Patel has confirmed that the team is still awaiting an update on Mitchell Starc’s fitness and participation in the 2026 Indian Premier League.

Cricket Australia rested Starc for the opening leg of the IPL, citing workload concerns ahead of a gruelling 12-18 months of international cricket following the culmination of the tournament. 

Starc played all five Tests in Australia’s 4-1 home Ashes win, where he won the Compton-Miller Medal, picking up 31 wickets across the series. He announced his retirement from international T20 Cricket in September 2025, which meant he was not a part of Australia’s dismal T20 World Cup campaign, where they were knocked out in the group stages. Starc was signed by the Capitals in the 2025 Mega Auction for a significant sum of INR 11.75 crore.

Munaf confirmed that there is no update on when Starc is to join the team, and information on his availability clearance lies in the hands of Cricket Australia’s physios.

“There's no update right now about when he will join the camp. The Australian doctors and physios will be able to update about that,” Munaf said, speaking in a press conference ahead of Delhi Capitals’ clash against the Gujarat Titans.

Munaf praised Starc’s importance, skill and experience as a bowler, terming him as one of the best in the world. He said that Aussie speedster's absence is not felt as the Capitals have won their first two games. He also added that he is in constant contact with those involved in Starc’s progress.

“We have won two matches, hence it seems like we are not missing Mitchell Starc. No one is missing him because we are doing well, but he has a big role to play. He is one of the best bowlers in the world. He will always be a big bowler. I don't think there is anyone bigger than him in the IPL as far as bowling is concerned.

"I think you can only compare Jasprit Bumrah with him. He has so much experience. He makes the new ball talk. We are tracking his progress. I always chat with those aware about his availability and when he will join the camp,” he added.

The Delhi Capitals are set to host the Gujarat Titans at the Arun Jaitley Stadium on April 8. They started their campaign with wins over the Lucknow Super Giants and the Mumbai Indians, and will look to carry that momentum forward.