IPL 2026: Mitchell Starc slams fake reports on fitness, eyes quick return to Delhi Capitals

Australia and Delhi Capitals (DC) fast bowler Mitchell Starc has slammed fake information being circulated about his participation in the Indian Premier League 2026 (IPL 2026), ahead of the upcoming season. Starc was retained by Delhi Capitals for Rs 11.75 crore ahead of the 19th edition of the tournament, but he’s yet to join the squad due to injury concerns.

Amid his late arrival in India, the Australia speedster has slammed fake information about his fitness being spread in the media. Starc also informed that he is rehabilitating as he continues to recover from injuries in his shoulder and elbow.

“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. These individuals have made some strong statements around involvement in the IPL and provided heavily misinformed opinions of players, preached them as facts, and claim to know my body better than me,” wrote Mitchell Starc on his Instagram story.

The fast bowler also apologised to the Delhi Capitals’ team management for disrupting their pre-season preparations. He also mentioned that he’s in constant touch with DC and aims to play for the franchise soon.

“With that said I do acknowledge this injury setback and timing is disruptive to the Delhi team and I apologise for that and to the fans for not being available for the early part of this season. I remain committed to join DC, are in continual communication updating the team and will continue to do what I can to be available for DC asap,” he added.

Cricket Australia managing fast bowlers' workload

Earlier, Delhi Capitals head coach Hemang Badani had said that they’re in constant talks with Starc, who had started bowling in the nets. However, DC remained unsure of his joining date with Cricket Australia (CA) yet to provide a Non-Objection Certificate (NOC) to the fast bowler.

CA continues to monitor the workload of their fast bowlers with a packed international cricket calendar ahead, where Australia are likely to play as many as 21 Tests within 12 months, with away series against South Africa, India and England in the pipeline, followed by the 2027 ODI World Cup.