IPL 2025: Delhi Capitals Await Mitchell Starc’s Decision Amid Uncertainty
Mitchell Starc’s participation in the remainder of IPL 2025 appears uncertain, dealing a significant setback to Delhi Capitals. The Australian pace bowler is reportedly unwilling to return to India following the tournament’s suspension due to heightened tensions between India and Pakistan. This disruption, which led to a one-week postponement of the league, is now affecting team strategies and squad availability.
According to a report by Australia’s Nine News, Mitchell Starc may not rejoin the Delhi Capitals even if the Indian Premier League resumes as scheduled. His manager indicated that Starc is not inclined to return to India, though an official confirmation from the player or the Delhi Capitals franchise is still pending. With 13 points and currently placed fifth in the standings, Delhi Capitals could face serious consequences in the playoff race without their star bowler.
Following the temporary suspension of IPL 2025, several top Australian cricketers returned home. Mitchell Starc, accompanied by his wife Alyssa Healy, has reached Sydney. When approached by local media, Starc declined to comment on his availability for the remainder of the tournament. His absence would be particularly significant given that Delhi Capitals had secured him for ₹11.75 crore in this year’s auction.
In addition to Mitchell Starc, other Australian players may also skip the remainder of the IPL. Sunrisers Hyderabad captain Pat Cummins and opening batter Travis Head are reportedly considering staying back in Australia to prepare for the ICC World Test Championship (WTC) Final, scheduled to be held at Lord’s on June 11. SRH has already been eliminated from playoff contention.
As per sources close to the Board of Control for Cricket in India (BCCI), the IPL 2025 season is expected to resume on May 16. The final match, originally set for May 25, will now be held between May 25 and May 30. This revised schedule was reported by NDTV on Sunday.
The absence of Mitchell Starc could severely hamper Delhi Capitals’ hopes of securing a playoff spot in IPL 2025, making the fast bowler’s potential decision a critical concern for the franchise.
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