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Mitchell Starc has been cleared by Cricket Australia to resume competitive cricket and is set to travel to India to link up with Delhi Capitals for the ongoing Indian Premier League season.

The left-arm pacer had been sidelined due to elbow and shoulder injuries sustained during the Australian summer. Despite the setbacks, Starc delivered a standout performance in the The Ashes, where Australia secured a 4-1 victory, before featuring in five matches for the Sydney Sixers in the Big Bash League.

Starc is expected to gradually build his workload upon arrival in India and is likely to make his IPL 2026 debut in Delhi Capitals’ May 1 clash against Rajasthan Royals. He is also expected to be available for the remainder of the league stage and any potential playoff fixtures.

Delhi Capitals currently hold a 3-3 record and sit fifth on the points table, with Lungi Ngidi leading their bowling attack with seven wickets in six matches.

Starc’s return comes weeks after he addressed speculation over his absence, stating on social media that he was managing injuries and responding to what he described as “misinformed opinions.” He reiterated his commitment to the franchise and expressed regret for missing the early part of the tournament.

Meanwhile, fellow Australian pacer Pat Cummins is also set to make his season debut for Sunrisers Hyderabad after recovering from a back stress issue. He is expected to return without bowling restrictions.

Another Australian quick, Josh Hazlewood, has also resumed action in the IPL after recovering from hamstring and Achilles injuries.

The return of Australia’s premier fast-bowling trio comes as a major boost for the national side, which is set to play an intense schedule of 20 Test matches over the next 12 months, along with limited-overs tours and a potential World Test Championship final appearance.

Edited by : Mary Rose Baba