Mitchell Starc has been cleared by Cricket Australia to join Delhi Capitals for IPL 2026 and is likely to play against Rajasthan Royals on May 1. Recovering from elbow and shoulder injuries, Starc addressed criticism over his IPL absence. Meanwhile, Pat Cummins and Josh Hazlewood are also returning to action this season.

Sydney: Mitchell Starc has been cleared by Cricket Australia to feature in the Indian Premier League with the pacer expected to be available for Delhi Capitals' match against Rajasthan Royals on May 1.

The left-arm quick has been sidelined since January due to elbow and shoulder niggles. He played a key role across all five Ashes Tests, earning the Player of the Series honour, before featuring in five Big Bash League games for Sydney Sixers later that month.

"Starc is expected to build up his workloads on the ground in India and is on track to make his debut for the 2026 season in Delhi's May 1 match against Rajasthan Royals," Cricket.com.au reported.

The 36-year-old's absence from the early phase of the IPL had sparked debate over the commitment of overseas players, prompting Starc to address the issue on social media and clarify what he termed "heavily misinformed opinions".