Mitchell Starc is set to miss the opening phase of IPL 2026, dealing an early blow to Delhi Capitals as they prepare for the new season. The left-arm quick, who was signed for ₹11.75 crore in the IPL 2025 mega auction, joins fellow Australian pacers Josh Hazlewood and Pat Cummins in skipping the initial matches.
According to reports, Cricket Australia is adopting a cautious approach with its premier fast bowlers, keeping in mind a packed international calendar leading up to the 2027 ODI World Cup. With multiple high-profile Test tours scheduled — including series in South Africa, India, and England — workload management has become a priority for the board.
Starc’s absence is largely precautionary. The experienced pacer has had a demanding year, featuring heavily in Test cricket and playing all five matches in the 2025–26 Ashes. In fact, he has bowled more deliveries than any other fast bowler in Tests over the past 12 months, prompting careful monitoring of his fitness.
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For Delhi Capitals, this is a significant setback. Starc remains their strike bowler and was a key performer last season, picking up 14 wickets in 11 matches under Axar Patel’s leadership. His ability to deliver early breakthroughs and execute at the death will be sorely missed in the opening games.
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In his absence, South Africa’s Lungi Ngidi is expected to spearhead the pace attack. He will be supported by a mix of experience and emerging talent, including T. Natarajan, Dushmantha Chameera, Kyle Jamieson, and promising youngster Auqib Nabi Dar.
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Auqib, in particular, is one to watch. The Jammu and Kashmir pacer impressed in the domestic circuit, finishing as the leading wicket-taker in the 2025–26 Ranji Trophy. His performances earned him a lucrative ₹8.40 crore deal at the auction, highlighting the franchise’s investment in future talent.
As Delhi Capitals navigate the early phase without Starc, their bowling depth will be tested — making squad rotation and adaptability crucial in IPL 2026.
