Australian pace ace Mitchell Starc has received medical clearance following a stint on the sidelines with shoulder and elbow issues. The veteran quick is scheduled to fly to India this Friday, providing a massive lift for the Delhi Capitals ahead of their next fixture. Starc is eyeing a high-stakes return to the crease for DC’s encounter with the Rajasthan Royals on May 1 in Jaipur.

The 36-year-old speedster has been out of the spotlight since late January, a result of the grueling workload endured during The Ashes. Starc was the undisputed star of that series, tearing through batting lineups to claim 31 wickets at a stunning average of 19.93 to earn Player of the Series honors. After bowling a marathon 150-plus overs in the Test arena, he briefly turned out for the Sydney Sixers in the Big Bash League before his injury setback.

The veteran’s injury occurred during a BBL clash against the Perth Scorchers when he suffered a heavy fall while diving for a catch. While a recovery window was initially planned for February, persistent discomfort during his return to training hampered his IPL arrival, sparking rumors regarding his status. Starc eventually broke his silence on the matter, expressing his annoyance at what he termed “heavily misinformed opinions” regarding his health.

Signs are now looking positive as the left-armer recently completed a week of intense, pain-free sessions back in Sydney. Upon reaching India, he will undergo a managed acclimatization process to adjust to the conditions. Provided there are no further complications, the Capitals expect him to be a fixture in their XI for the May 1 match and the remainder of the tournament.

In related news, Aussie skipper Pat Cummins is also nearing his maiden IPL 2026 appearance for Sunrisers Hyderabad, with a comeback penciled in for this Saturday—ironically also against the Royals in Jaipur. Cummins has been working his way back from a lumbar stress injury since December, having featured in just a single Test match since July 2025.

The reintegration of Starc, Cummins, and Josh Hazlewood is a pivotal development for Australian cricket, with national selectors meticulously managing the trio’s fitness ahead of a relentless calendar. The Baggy Green stars are bracing for a block of 21 Tests between August 2026 and August 2027, followed immediately by the pursuit of the ODI World Cup title.