Starc's IPL Start Delayed: NOC Hold-Up

Delhi Capitals await Cricket Australia's NOC for Mitchell Starc's IPL 2026 participation. Captain Axar Patel faces leadership challenges amidst player availability concerns.

Delhi Capitals' season opener could be without their star pacer, Mitchell Starc. Head coach Hemang Badani confirmed on Monday that Starc's availability is contingent upon receiving a No-Objection Certificate (NOC) from Cricket Australia (CA). Reports suggest CA is monitoring the workloads of its prominent fast bowlers, potentially impacting Starc's early season participation.

Starc has not competed in any professional matches since January, following his contributions to Australia's Ashes victory and a stint in the Big Bash League. This situation adds to the challenges faced by Delhi Capitals' captain, Axar Patel. Patel, in his second season as skipper, is growing into his leadership role, aiming to guide the team through difficult situations.

Patel expressed that leadership involves considering the team's needs and supporting other players. He strives to be a visible leader, especially during critical moments, to ease the pressure on his teammates. The team remains in constant communication with CA regarding Starc's clearance.

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