Australian fast bowler Mitchell Starc has pushed back firmly against critics questioning his delayed arrival for Indian Premier League (IPL) 2026, issuing a public statement clarifying injury concerns and apologising to his franchise, Delhi Capitals (DC), and fans for his absence. The left‑arm pacer also revealed fresh details about the physical issues behind his delayed start to the tournament.

Starc’s absence from the early stages of the IPL this season sparked debate in cricketing circles, with some observers — including former players — suggesting a lack of commitment to the league. The 33‑year‑old responded directly to those claims, calling out what he described as “heavily misinformed opinions” that were being presented as facts in media narratives.

In his statement, Starc confirmed he has been managing a shoulder and elbow injury sustained during the Australian summer, which he said he did not fully understand the extent of until rehabilitation began. He emphasised that the recovery process has necessitated a cautious approach and was the primary reason he has not yet joined DC in India.

Also Read: IPL Washes Hands of Overseas Player Crisis, Puts Entire Responsibility on Franchises

Acknowledging the disruption his absence has caused to the team’s plans, Starc issued a direct apology to the Delhi Capitals management and supporters. “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,” he said in the statement, while reinforcing his commitment to join the squad as soon as he is fit.

Starc also took issue with critics who he said had commented on his involvement without concrete knowledge of his condition. “Some individuals have provided heavily misinformed opinions of players, preached them as facts, and claim to know my body better than me,” he wrote, emphasising that such speculation was unhelpful and inaccurate.

Despite the rough start, Starc reaffirmed his determination to contribute once he completes his rehabilitation. His remarks have drawn mixed reactions from fans and pundits, with some praising his honesty and others questioning the broader workload management strategies for marquee overseas players in the IPL era.

Also Read: Mitchell Starc Unavailable for IPL 2026 Start Due to Workload Management, Says Cricket Australia