Munaf Patel, who is the head coach of the Delhi Capitals, has said the franchise is not missing their speedster Mitchell Starc, having their first two matches without him in the IPL 2026. Starc is currently recovering from his injuries, with plans to join the team after April 20.
Strac played all five Ashes Tests against England and took 31 wickets. He bowled over 150 overs, which took a toll on his body. The veteran pacer also represented the Sydney Sixers in the Big Bash League. With Australia set to play 21 Tests in the upcoming international season, Cricket Australia is managing Starc’s workload.
Ahead of the game against the Gujarat Titans, Munaf mentioned that Starc’s absence might be felt if the Delhi Capitals fail to win games in the near future.
“We are not feeling Mitchell Starc’s absence as we are winning matches. We have recorded two wins so far. However, if we don’t perform in the coming days, then the situation will change,” Munaf said.
Munaf lauded the Aussie bowler, comparing him with Jasprit Bumrah. He is seeking an update on the return of the legendary bowler.
“He is one of the best bowlers in the world. We are not missing him, but he is our top bowler. There is no one better than him in the IPL. You can compare Bumrah with him. Starc bowls fast and he swings the ball at 140 kmph plus,” he added.
Munaf said there is no update on Starc’s comeback and they are waiting for information from Cricket Australia.
“There is no update on his return, and we will have to wait for an update from physio or the medical team,” he concluded.
Starc picked up 14 wickets in 11 matches for the Delhi Capitals in IPL 2025. Overall, he has been a part of 52 matches in the tournament and has claimed 65 scalps.
