Aakash Chopra Questions Mitchell Starc Absence From IPL 2026

Aakash Chopra questions Cricket Australia’s decision to rest Mitchell Starc, leaving Delhi Capitals without their lead pacer at the start of IPL 2026.

Former India cricketer Aakash Chopra has raised serious concerns over Mitchell Starc missing the initial phase of Indian Premier League 2026 despite being fully fit. The left-arm pacer, who was expected to spearhead the bowling attack for Delhi Capitals, has reportedly been rested by Cricket Australia as part of workload management.

Chopra openly questioned the logic behind the decision, especially considering Starc’s recent inactivity in competitive cricket.

“If Mitchell Starc is also not going to come at the start, what is Cricket Australia doing? You didn’t let Josh Hazlewood come, Pat Cummins isn’t coming, and now you have held back Mitchell Starc, even though he is absolutely fit. He has already said goodbye to T20Is. So, what has he done in the last two months or so?” he said, speaking on his YouTube Channel.

Australia’s pace unit hit by multiple absences

Starc’s absence adds to a growing list of Australian fast bowlers unavailable at the start of IPL 2026. Josh Hazlewood and Pat Cummins are dealing with fitness concerns, while Nathan Ellis and Jack Edwards have been ruled out entirely due to injuries.

This situation leaves franchises, particularly Delhi, scrambling to adjust their bowling combinations ahead of the new season.

Meanwhile, Starc’s last appearance came during the The Ashes 2025–26, where he delivered a standout performance. Playing all five Tests, he picked up 31 wickets and was instrumental in Australia’s dominant 4-1 series victory over England, earning the Player-of-the-Series award.

Workload management ahead of packed international calendar

Chopra further criticised the timing of resting Starc, pointing out that the pacer hasn’t played any cricket since the Ashes, making the decision even more puzzling.

“He hasn’t played any cricket after the Ashes, but despite that, you have asked him to rest because a big Test season is coming up, in which there are five Test matches against India. That’s just before the next IPL. Why are you doing that now?” he observed.

ALSO READ | Rahul Dravid Praises Sanju Samson For Outstanding T20 World Cup 2026

Australia are preparing for a demanding international schedule, including major away series against South Africa, India, and England, along with preparations to defend their ODI World Cup title in 2027.

Despite these long-term plans, Chopra believes holding back a fully fit Starc at this stage raises more questions than answers. Meanwhile, Delhi Capitals are set to kick off their IPL 2026 campaign against Lucknow Super Giants on April 1 in Lucknow, potentially without their premier fast-bowling spearhead.