Mitchell Starc Cleared for IPL Return with Delhi Capitals

Australian fast bowler Mitchell Starc has been cleared by Cricket Australia to return to the Indian Premier League, with the 36-year-old expected to make his debut for the Delhi Capitals against the Rajasthan Royals on May 1.

Starc, a left-arm pacer, has been sidelined since late January due to injuries to his shoulder and elbow sustained during a demanding schedule. The issues arose after he played a pivotal role in Australia's Ashes series victory, where he claimed 31 wickets across five Tests at an average of 19.93 and bowled more than 150 overs, earning him the Player of the Series award. He then featured in five Big Bash League matches for the Sydney Sixers, including a game against the Perth Scorchers where he injured himself while attempting a catch. After a break in February, persistent soreness delayed his IPL preparations, leading to his absence from the tournament's early rounds.

Recent progress has accelerated his comeback. Starc completed a week of pain-free bowling sessions in Sydney and is scheduled to travel to India on April 24. Upon arrival, he will undergo acclimatization and gradually build his workload to ensure match readiness. Officials indicated that,...