IPL 2026: Mitchell Starc available for selection ahead of DC's clash against RR in Jaipur

Fast bowler Mitchell Starc is available for Delhi Capitals’ (DC) next fixture of the Indian Premier League 2026 (IPL 2026) against Rajasthan Royals (RR) on Friday, May 1 at Sawai Mansingh Stadium, Jaipur. Starc was retained by DC for Rs 11.75 Crore ahead of IPL 2026, but his arrival in India was delayed as he continued to recover from injuries in his shoulder and elbow.

He recently joined the team after being given fitness clearance by Cricket Australia (CA) and has been consistently bowling in the DC nets. Starc's availability for the upcoming fixture was confirmed by Delhi Capitals' bowling coach Munaf Patel.

“He is available from tomorrow. Our best bowler will definitely play, but the final decision will be taken tomorrow. Him coming back, it definitely helps. Fast bowlers who may have struggled in the powerplay will get more support,” said Munaf Patel in the pre-match press conference.

Starc's availability comes as a major boost to DC, whose campaign has gone astray. They have struggled to create an impact with the new ball in the ongoing season, having scalped just seven wickets inside the powerplay, the joint-lowest along with Kolkata Knight Riders (KKR).

DC on a three-match losing streak

The Axar Patel-led side started the season with back-to-back victories against Lucknow Super Giants (LSG) and Mumbai Indians (MI). However, since then, they've only won one out of their last six matches as they're placed seventh on the points table with six points.

The last two games in particular have been soul-crushing for Delhi, as first Punjab chased down the highest target in T20 cricket of 265 against them. Later, they were skittled for just 75 on the same surface against Royal Challengers Bengaluru, who registered a dominating nine-wicket victory.

As a result, DC desperately need some impetus to revive their campaign, with the tournament having reached its halfway mark.