Will Mitchell Starc play in IPL 2026?: The Delhi Capitals have provided a major update regarding his status, revealing that he has not yet received a 'No Objection Certificate' (NOC) from Cricket Australia (CA). The Delhi Capitals' first match in IPL 2026 is scheduled for April 1st against the Lucknow Super Giants. During a pre-season press conference, Delhi Capitals coach Hemang Badani stated that they are in constant contact with the Cricket Australia board.
Will Starc Play?
In fact, Mitchell Starc's fitness remains a matter of concern for the Delhi Capitals. CA has not yet granted him fitness clearance, which is causing a delay in the issuance of his NOC. Coach Hemang Badani confirmed that they are currently awaiting the issuance of the NOC; once the NOC is received, Starc will become eligible to play in IPL 2026.
The coach also mentioned that Starc had engaged in bowling practice just a few days ago. However, until the Australian cricket board grants him permission to play, the Delhi Capitals franchise cannot take any further steps.
Mitchell Starc's Injury Status:
Ahead of IPL 2026, Australian bowlers, in particular, have become a focal point of discussion due to injury concerns. While Mitchell Starc has not yet received fitness clearance on one hand, Sunrisers Hyderabad captain Pat Cummins is grappling with a back issue on the other. It is expected that Cummins will miss the first few matches; consequently, in his absence, Ishan Kishan is likely to be seen captaining the SRH team.
Josh Hazlewood, who took 22 wickets for RCB in IPL 2025, has also fallen victim to injury. He is suffering from a hamstring issue and will be unable to play in the Royal Challengers' initial matches. Earlier, his fellow Australian player Nathan Ellis was ruled out of the entire season. Ellis was scheduled to play for the Chennai Super Kings this time.
