Delhi Capitals are likely to suffer a huge blow in IPL 2025 as their star overseas bowler, Mitchell Starc, is said not to return when the tournament resumes after a one-week break. News Nine, an Australian outlet, in an exclusive report, claimed that Starc’s manager has suggested that the left-arm quick could sit out the remaining matches to take care of international obligations.
IPL 2025 Suspended After Border Tensions
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The current IPL 2025 season was suspended mid-stream for a week in the wake of heightened tensions on the India-Pakistan border during Operation Sindoor. The PBKS-DC match in Dharamsala was suspended halfway in view of air raid warnings in surrounding cities. After that, most of the overseas players returned to their respective countries or took refuge in the UAE.
Return of Overseas Players Not Certain Even With Ceasefire
Even though there has been a ceasefire, the return of foreign players is unclear. The shutdown has caused scheduling conflicts, particularly with international competitions coming up. Most foreign cricketers now place national responsibilities ahead of franchise obligations.
The Board of Control for Cricket in India (BCCI) has advised franchises to begin preparations for the tournament’s resumption and contact their players. A revised match schedule is expected soon. Notably, PBKS will shift their home fixtures away from Dharamsala and Mullanpur due to security concerns.
Mitchell Starc’s Absence Could Hurt Delhi Capitals’ Playoff Chances
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One of Delhi Capitals’ most influential players, Mitchell Starc, might not return to the team. Brought back at a substantial ₹11.75 crore, Starc has been pricey and productive, giving away runs at 10.23 per over but topping DC’s wicket charts with 14 wickets, including a fiver.
In the match now abandoned against PBKS, Starc had already conceded 23 runs off two overs. His loss can significantly affect Delhi Capitals’ run as they eye a playoff finish.
Preparation for WTC Final Most Likely to Shape Starc’s Choice
The World Test Championship (WTC) 2025 Final, which begins on June 11, is said to be one of the major reasons for Starc’s likely IPL departure. Since the IPL final is likely to be held between May 30 and June 1, Starc would have fewer than 10 days to prepare for Australia’s WTC match against South Africa at Lord’s.
Other Overseas Players in the Delhi Capitals Squad
The other Australian in the Delhi Capitals’ team, Jake Fraser-McGurk, will most probably remain. The young opener has no instant national obligations but has not been a consistent starter, having scored only 55 runs in six innings.
DC vs PBKS Match Will Resume
The forfeited Delhi Capitals-Punjab Kings encounter will be replayed, although the BCCI has yet to declare a new date. As of now, DC is fifth on the points table at 13 points from 11 games, well within the playoff contention, although the loss of Mitchell Starc could make it harder for them down the line.
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