The Delhi Capitals (DC) finally received some much-needed good news amid the ongoing IPL 2026. Australian fast bowler Mitchell Starc has now joined the Delhi Capitals (DC) squad, giving a big boost to the team ahead of the important phase of the tournament.
The Capitals were eagerly awaiting the arrival of Mitchell Starc. Now that the fiery Australian pacer is back, DC’s bowling attack looks stronger but fans may have to wait a while before seeing him on the field in the ongoing tournament.
Delhi Capitals finally welcome Mitchell Starc after long wait
On Saturday, April 25, Delhi Capitals posted a video on their social media platforms confirming the arrival of Mitchell Starc for the ongoing IPL 2026. They captioned the video: “Worth the wait 💙❤️ Welcome back home Tiger! 🐅.”
It’s worth the wait 💙❤️
Welcome back home, Tiger! 🐅 pic.twitter.com/cbd5Adjzxo
– Delhi Capitals (@DelhiCapitals) April 25, 2026
The reason behind Starc’s delay was health issues. The Australian fast bowler had put a lot of load on his body during the Ashes, where he bowled long spells throughout the five-match Test series and played a key role in Australia’s 4-1 win over England at home.
Also Read: Rohit Sharma Injury Update: Hitman to play against Sunrisers Hyderabad in IPL 2026
Mitchell Starc’s tough recovery journey
After the Ashes, Mitchell Starc played in the 2025-26 Big Bash League (BBL), where he fell badly while trying to stop a catch and began to feel pain in his shoulder and elbow. His recovery took a long time. This left Delhi Capitals with no option but to wait.
Earlier this week, Cricket Australia (CA) cleared Starc to join the IPL. In their absence, Mukesh Kumar, T Natarajan and Lungi Ngidi did their best to keep things under control this season.
Starc is an important player in DC’s lineup. In IPL 2025, he picked up 14 wickets in 11 matches and even took a five-wicket haul against Sunrisers Hyderabad. However, he was unable to finish the season as he returned home early to prepare for international matches.
Delhi Capitals take safe route with Starc’s return
Well, the Delhi Capitals are not rushing Starc back into action in the ongoing IPL 2026. The Australian bowler is unlikely to play against the Punjab Kings on April 25. The team wants him to first train properly and gradually regain his rhythm after staying away from stocks for almost three months.
Also Read: Cooper Connolly left Punjab Kings camp midway through IPL and flew back to Australia! Shocking truth revealed
If all goes well, Starc is expected to play his first match of this season against Rajasthan Royals on May 1. The plan is to have him fully fit for the final stage of the tournament. Until then, Ngidi, who has taken seven wickets in six matches, will continue to lead the attack.
DC looks to bounce back against PBKS
Notably, Delhi Capitals will take on Punjab Kings in the 35th match of IPL 2026 on April 25 at the Arun Jaitley Stadium in Delhi. DC has won 3 out of 6 games and is ranked 6th in the points table. They come into this match after a tough loss against Sunrisers Hyderabad, but they won two matches at home.
On the other hand, PBKS are undefeated with 5 wins and 1 no result, and will aim to continue their winning streak and get closer to the IPL 2026 playoffs in this crucial clash.