IPL: Starc ‘no update’, DC’s Axar says ‘no temptation to replace’ pacer

New Delhi: Delhi Capitals on Monday provided a key update on the availability of Australian pace spearhead Mitchell Starc ahead of the 2026 Indian Premier League (IPL), with the team still awaiting approval from Cricket Australia.Push boundaries with our YouTube channel. Subscribe now!During a pre-season media interaction, DC head coach Hemang Badani confirmed that there has been no official communication regarding Starc’s participation. “Have not received any update from Cricket Australia [Mitchell] Stark. You will be notified once things are clarified. “This shows that the situation is still uncertain,” Badani said.Despite the lack of clarity, DC captain Axar Patel struck a more optimistic note, expressing confidence that the left-arm fastman could join the team anytime. “Starc can come anytime, there is no specific date. If he doesn’t come, there will be no temptation to replace the left arm with a left arm. Natarajan has been performing well and is 100 per cent fit. If Starc and Impact players need it,” Axar said. He also reiterated his reservations about the impact player rule, adding that as an all-around player he’s not entirely in favor of it.DC director of cricket Venugopal Rao backed Axar’s optimism and expressed optimism about Starc’s eventual arrival. “Starc is coming. Just waiting for permission from Cricket Australia,” he said, suggesting the delay was procedural rather than a long-term issue.Badani further explained that Starc’s availability depends on fitness and workload management. “It depends on when he bowls and gets the nod,” he added, stressing that the final decision rested with Cricket Australia’s medical and management teams.Starc likely to miss DC’s first gameStarc, 36, is expected to miss at least the first phase of the tournament and Cricket Australia is reportedly keeping a close eye on his workload. Considering his role as the pace spearhead of the team, his absence, even if temporary, will be a big factor for Delhi Capitals.The left-arm pacer was DC’s second-highest wicket-taker last season, taking 14 wickets in 11 games. The team retained him after acquiring his services in the auction for Rs 1,175 crore.Delhi Capitals will begin their IPL 2026 season against Lucknow Supergiants on April 1 at the Ekana Cricket Stadium.