Australian quick Mitchell Starc will make a comeback to the IPL 2026 after being given the all clear for shoulder and elbow problems. The left arm fast bowler is anticipated to be present in India by the 24th and looks poised to be fit in time for Delhi Capitals’ encounter with Rajasthan Royals, to be held on May 1 st. Starc Eyes Comeback After Injury Break The now 36 year-old pace bowler has been out of action since late January after an extensive stint with the Australian squad. He last participated in The Ashes where he emerged as one of the key contributors for the winning side. His 31 scalps in five Tests saw him earn the Man of the Series award following the paceman's feat of bowling over 150 overs. Subsequently he appeared in Big Bash League for Sydney Sixers who advanced to the final stage where they lost out narrowly. He sustained a left elbow and shoulder injury when he attempted to take a catch during a BBL clash between Sydney Sixers and Perth Scorchers. This injury required a break in February. The speedster experienced pain on his next return, as the injury delayed his intended IPL stint. This further added to the uncertainty surrounding his absence, to which Starc later addressed with respect to these questions and comments. Now all looks positive. Starc successfully finished a one-week period of practice bowling with no pain whatsoever in Sydney and looks poised to slowly increase his workload upon arrival in India before match preparation. Also Read | Viral 1999 Cricket Photo: Who is the Model Linked to Kevin Pietersen and Why is She Held by Players? Huge Boost for the Delhi Capitals' Bowling Unit The return of Starc is an enormous boost for Axar Patel-led Delhi Capitals. His experience and sheer pace will definitely help their bowling unit tremendously during a critical part of the tournament. Starc had a decent IPL 2025, taking 14 wickets in 11 games, though his economy was relatively high at 10.16. The major highlight of his last IPL stint was a five-wicket haul Hopefully Starc is quickly into the swing of things, but the Capitals will be looking for significant contributions from their new signing. A fully fit Starc could be vital during crunch matches such as their upcoming encounter in Jaipur. As the tournament reaches a very tight stage, a bowler such as Starc could go a long way in winning them the trophy this season.