- By Namrata Vijay
- Sat, 28 Mar 2026 05:47 PM (IST)
- Source:JND
IPL 2026: Australian pacer Mitchell Starc has slammed the critics for his absence during the first few matches of IPL 2026. Starc still hasn't reached India and will be playing the first few matches for the Delhi Capitals, which has sparked debate over overseas players' commitment, with Sunil Gavaskar among the few who have spoken. Putting an end to these speculations, Starc revealed that he is currently recovering from an elbow injury sustained in the summer. Cricket Australia had already revealed that the fast bowlers Mitchell Starc, Josh Hazlewood, and Pat Cummins will miss the first few matches due to workload management.
His absence sparked debate among fans, with many questioning his commitment. Ex-Australian cricketer Alyssa Healy, his wife, clarified on Instagram that Starc is recovering from injury after a fan questioned his unavailability.
Addressing speculation, Starc explained that his injury is the reason he's missing the IPL's first half.
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"Despite the opinions and views of certain individuals with their platforms in and through the Indian media, I’m currently rehabbing and managing an injury in my shoulder and elbow of which I didn’t know the extent of during the Australian summer," Starc had written on his official Instagram account.
The Australian fast bowler strongly opposed what he called misinformed media narratives about his IPL absence.
He said, "These individuals have made strong statements about IPL involvement and spread misinformed opinions about players, treating opinions as facts and claiming to know my body better than I do."
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Mitchell Starc remains committed to the Delhi Capitals
Starc apologized to the team and fans for his absence and promised to return as soon as possible.
He wrote, "I acknowledge this injury setback, and its timing is disruptive to Delhi. I apologize to the team and fans for not being available for the early part of the season. I remain committed to joining DC, stay in communication, and will do what I can to be available as soon as possible."