Delhi Capitals (DC) will be dealt a massive blow as star pacer Mitchell Starc is unlikely to return to India after the resumption of the 18th edition of the Indian Premier League (IPL 2025) season. For the unversed, IPL 2025 came to a halt on May 09 after escalating tensions between India and Pakistan. Apart from Starc, Australia's other top cricketers have also returned home amid growing tension over IPL 2025's restart.
Starc reached Sydney on Sunday, May 11, alongside his wife, Alyssa Healy, but he declined to speak to the media. However, the Capitals player's manager told Australia's Nine News that the speedster might not return if the IPL 2025 likely starts in May. Marcus Stoinis, another Aussie player who plays for PBKS, confirmed that "everyone is fine" but refrained from offering any further comment on the future.
Why Mitchell Starc's likely no return will disrupt DC's plans in IPL 2025 season?
Speaking about the Capitals, they are currently placed fifth on the IPL 2025 points table, with 12 points from 11 games. With only three games to go, the DC needs to win at least two games to go through IPL playoffs. Starc missing their fag end of the matches could prove to be a body blow, as he is their premier pacer and a gun performer in knockout matches. Last season, playing for KKR, Mitchell Starc broke the back of SRH's batting lineup in the finals to enable an easy win for KKR.
Also Read:Â IPL 2025 Suspended: Check out where every team stands in the playoff race
Cricket Australia to support its players amidst IPL 2025 likely resumption
Notably, CA will support its players if they do not feel safe traveling back to India for a restart of the IPL 2025 season. According to The Age, the board has left it to the individuals and has clearly stated their future choices should not have an impact on the IPL or relations with the BCCI. Meanwhile, the Indian Board is closely assessing the situation, with no official word on the IPL 2025 resumption.
BCCI will seek approval from the Indian Government before the final IPL 2025 date is announced. As of now, May 16 or 17 is the likely date of the restart of the IPL.
