In a major setback for Delhi Capitals, Australian pace star Mitchell Starc has officially pulled out of the remaining IPL 2025 season. Starc, who was bought for a whopping ₹11.75 crore, had already played all 11 matches this season and taken 14 crucial wickets. But now, just when DC is fighting for a playoff spot, the experienced pacer has decided to step away.
What Exactly Happened?
Starc reportedly sent an email to Delhi Capitals management on Thursday confirming that he won’t return. His sudden exit comes after days of suspense, with the team unsure whether he would come back after a short break.
Insiders suggest that recent security issues, especially the drone attacks near the India-Pakistan border, left Starc shaken. The tense journey from Dharamsala to Delhi—by both bus and train—added to his discomfort. Sources also say Australian teammate Jake Fraser-McGurk felt disturbed during this period.
Airport Incident Adds to the Drama
Adding to the chaos, Starc was recently spotted at the airport where he seemed visibly upset with a fan filming him. In a video that went viral, Starc is seen saying “Go away” multiple times while loading his kit onto a trolley, showing how tense and tired he might be from the situation.
Who Will Replace Mitchell Starc Now?
Delhi Capitals are now putting their hopes on Mustafizur Rahman, the left-arm pacer from Bangladesh. He has replaced Fraser-McGurk in the squad and is expected to play a key role in the upcoming matches. Mustafizur has a good IPL record, with 54 matches under his belt since 2016. Despite earlier confusion over his NOC, he is now confirmed to be available.
What’s the Current Scene at DC Camp?
DC resumed training this week at the Arun Jaitley Stadium. Only one overseas player, Sri Lankan pacer Dushmantha Chameera, attended the first session. Other players, like Faf du Plessis and Tristan Stubbs, are expected to join soon. Team mentor Kevin Pietersen is also returning on May 16.
Delhi Capitals’ next match is against Gujarat Titans on May 18. DC currently sits in fifth place with 13 points from 11 games. With the playoffs in sight, the team needs to stay focused despite losing one of their key players.
Hazlewood to Return for RCB?
In other news, Royal Challengers Bengaluru might get a big boost. Aussie quick Josh Hazlewood could rejoin them for the playoffs after recovering from a shoulder issue. With Lungi Ngidi set to leave after the league stage, Hazlewood’s return could be a big plus for RCB, who are second on the table.
Mitchell Starc’s withdrawal is definitely a big loss for Delhi Capitals at a critical moment. But the tournament continues, and DC still has the talent and spirit to push ahead. As fans, we’ll be watching closely to see how they respond to this sudden change.
Also Read: IPL 2025 New Replacements: Major Updates from PBKS, GT and LSG Camps
FAQs
Why is Mitchell Starc leaving IPL 2025?
Starc reportedly felt disturbed by recent events in India and confirmed via email that he won’t return this season.
Who will replace Starc in the Delhi Capitals squad?
While not a direct replacement, DC is depending on Mustafizur Rahman to step up in the bowling department.
Will Starc be fined or penalised?
There is no news of any penalty yet. The team seems to be focusing on moving forward without him.
When is Delhi Capitals’ next match?
DC plays Gujarat Titans on May 18 at Arun Jaitley Stadium, Delhi.
Is Josh Hazlewood returning to RCB?
Yes, reports say he may rejoin RCB for the playoffs after rehab in Brisbane.
