Delhi Capitals are likely to suffer a big setback for the rest of IPL 2025. According to Australian media reports, fast bowler Mitchell Starc is not expected to come back to India for the tournament, which is set to resume this week.
Mitchell Starc Unlikely to Return for IPL 2025
The IPL 2025 was put on hold for a week due to rising tensions between India and Pakistan. The BCCI quickly decided to pause the tournament after 58 matches had already been played without any issues.
With India and Pakistan agreeing to a ceasefire, the BCCI is planning to restart IPL 2025, possibly on May 17 or 18, with the final on May 30. While there’s no official confirmation yet, franchises have reportedly been asked to recall their overseas players by Tuesday.
Many foreign players had flown home after the Punjab Kings vs Delhi Capitals match was stopped midway. Now, reports suggest several of them, including Delhi Capitals’ Mitchell Starc, might not return. Starc landed in Sydney on Sunday and didn’t speak to the media, but his manager told 9News he’s unlikely to come back due to the recent conflict.
Australian media also reported that other Australian players may skip the rest of the IPL, partly because of the tough conditions and the upcoming ICC World Test Championship final.
Delhi Capitals’ Playoff Hopes Under Pressure
Mitchell Starc, bought for ₹11.75 crore in the IPL 2025 auction, performed well this season. He played all 12 matches, took 14 wickets, and became the first Delhi pacer to take a five-wicket haul.
Delhi Capitals are currently fifth on the points table with 6 wins and 4 losses. After a strong start, their form has dipped. To qualify for the playoffs, they must win both of their remaining games to reach 18 points.
Three Possible Replacements for Mitchell Starc
1. Naveen-ul-Haq:
Naveen-ul-Haq, the talented pacer from Afghanistan, went unsold in IPL 2025 but there are chances that he could return to the league as Mitchell Starc’s replacement. Naveen picked 11 wickets in 7 games for Lucknow Super Giants in IPL 2023 and is effective in all phases of the innings.
2. Alzarri Joseph:
Alzarri, the key West Indies pacer, brings IPL and international experience with hitting ability. Though his IPL economy is high, his power and versatility can boost DC’s lineup.
3. Jason Behrendorff:
Left-arm pacer Jason Behrendorff is a like-for-like Mitchell Starc replacement with new-ball skills. He has 19 wickets in 17 IPL games but struggles with injuries and an economy of 9.05.
ALSO READ: Virat Kohli Bids Farewell To Test Cricket After 14 Glorious Years
