Overview
- DC captain Axar Patel said after the loss to Royal Challengers Bengaluru that Starc has joined the squad, received his No Objection Certificate, and can be picked from May 1.
- The left-arm quick did not play the RCB game as Delhi kept him out while they track his bowling loads and plan his return.
- Starc’s IPL start was delayed by soreness in his shoulder and elbow from a Big Bash League fall, with Cricket Australia later clearing him to resume.
- With Starc not yet used, local reporting indicated Kyle Jamieson or Dushmantha Chameera were considered for the overseas pace slot, with Lungi Ngidi seen as unlikely to feature.
- Delhi are seventh after three wins in eight matches, and coaches see Starc’s pace and experience as a chance to steady an attack during a key stretch of the league.