Delhi Capitals are closely monitoring Mitchell Starc’s fitness ahead of their IPL 2026 clash against the Gujarat Titans at the Arun Jaitley Stadium, with bowling coach Munaf Patel providing an update on the Australian pacer’s availability. Starc, who has been dealing with injury concerns, is yet to feature this season, leaving DC to manage without one of their premier match-winners.
Speaking at the pre-match press conference, Munaf admitted that while Delhi have started their campaign strongly with two wins, Starc’s absence could become more significant as the tournament progresses. For now, the results have masked the void, but tougher challenges may expose the need for an experienced strike bowler.
“Till now there is no update. Australian board physio, trainer, or doctor will update,” Munaf Patel said, confirming that the franchise is still awaiting official clearance from Cricket Australia regarding Starc’s fitness.
ALSO READ: Kevin Pietersen Opens Up On ECB Fallout That Ended His Career
He further explained that the team has not yet felt the impact of Starc’s absence due to early success, but that situation may not last if performances dip in the coming matches.
🚨 BIG BLOW FOR DELHI CAPITALS 🚨
– Mitchell Starc is likely to miss atleast 3 more games for DC in IPL 2026 as he is managing a shoulder & elbow injury. [Sahil Malhotra from TOI] pic.twitter.com/tk1qhYKENB
— Johns. (@CricCrazyJohns) April 7, 2026
“Right now we have won two matches so we are not feeling Starc’s absence. But in the coming matches, if they don’t perform then it depends on them,” he added.
Munaf also underlined Starc’s value to the squad, calling him one of the finest fast bowlers in world cricket. He went on to compare the left-arm pacer with India’s Jasprit Bumrah, highlighting Starc’s pace, experience, and ability to swing the new ball as key assets.
ALSO READ: RR Coach Addresses Shimron Hetmyer Form Concern Ahead of MI Clash
“He is one of the best bowlers in the world. I don’t think there’s anyone better than Starc in the IPL. Bumrah is the one you can compare with,” Munaf noted. As Delhi Capitals prepare for their next fixture, Starc’s availability remains a crucial factor that could influence their campaign moving forward.
