Mitchell Starc Slams Media; Clarifies Injury Rehabilitation For IPL 2026 Availability

Mitchell Starc Ruled Out Of Initial IPL 2026 Phase As Cricket Australia Hinders Participation

Mitchell Starc explains getting ruled out of Delhi Capitals matches for first few weeks of IPL 2026.

Australian pace spearhead Mitchell Starc has strongly addressed the swirling rumours around his participation in the Indian Premier League 2026, calling out sections of the Indian media for what he described as “misinformed opinions” and unwarranted speculation.

The left-arm quick, who is set to represent Delhi Capitals this season, revealed that his delayed arrival is purely due to injury management rather than any uncertainty about his commitment.

In a detailed statement, Starc made it clear that he is currently undergoing rehabilitation for an injury sustained during Australia’s recent international assignments. He admitted that even he wasn’t fully aware of the severity of the issue at the time, particularly involving his shoulder and elbow, which required careful monitoring and recovery.

Mitchell Starc Slams Inaccurate Information

What appeared to frustrate the veteran pacer most was the narrative being built around his absence. Starc pointed out that several individuals had made strong claims regarding his IPL involvement without having access to accurate information.

He criticised such assumptions, stating that opinions were being formed without proper facts, with some even suggesting they knew his situation better than he did. Starc posted an Instagram story to put an end to the rumours.

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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. 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.

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,” Starc wrote.

Despite the noise, Starc acknowledged that the timing of his injury setback has been far from ideal, especially with the IPL season underway. He expressed regret towards the Delhi Capitals management and their supporters for missing the early part of the campaign, recognising the disruption his absence may have caused.

However, the 36-year-old reassured fans that his focus remains firmly on returning to action as soon as possible. He emphasised his commitment to the franchise, confirming that he is in constant communication with the team regarding his recovery progress. Starc also underlined his intention to contribute to Delhi Capitals’ campaign once he regains full fitness.

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