IPL 2026: Mitchell Starc Set for Comeback? Munaf Patel’s Hint Sparks Buzz Ahead of RR vs DC

Delhi Capitals finally have something to look forward to before the crucial Indian Premier League 2026 encounter against Rajasthan Royals as fast bowler Mitchell Starc is now fit and ready to play.

The Delhi bowling coach Munaf Patel confirmed Starc's fitness before the game that is scheduled to be played at the Sawai Mansingh Stadium but didn't confirm his place in the playing XI of the Capitals while confirming that his team will definitely have a serious look at him.

Munaf said: 

"He is available from tomorrow. Our best bowler will definitely play but the final decision will be taken tomorrow. His coming back definitely helps."

Starc has been out of action for the last few weeks with shoulder and elbow injuries and has just re-joined his team, and if selected would be featuring in a competitive game since January. This would be great news for the Delhi Capitals who have been struggling immensely with their bowling attack throughout the ongoing tournament.

Munaf stresses on bowling strengths backs team strategy

The former India pacer went on to explain the significance of the bowling attack in T20 cricket which he believes is of paramount importance when it comes to winning tournaments with big-hitting batsmen in the opposition.

He said:

"I always say this: a match can be won by batters, but a tournament is won by bowlers. If bowlers bowl well, you can win the tournament. Batters can win you a game but without good bowling, you cannot win consistently."

Delhi Capitals have had a topsy-turvy campaign so far and have displayed the capability to hit big scores as well as succumbed to big collapses in form of getting bowled out for just 75 against Royal Challengers Bangalore.

But Munaf has ruled out the notion that his team is lacking in confidence or under immense pressure.

Munaf explained:

"No, we were not nervous. We were playing with a different approach. The wicket was doing a bit and they bowled well. It is not like if you lose one game, you become nervous in the next game." 

Three wins and four losses have put Delhi Capitals in a must-win situation and Munaf admitted that the team is aware of the pressure and the stakes and they will be up for the task.

He concluded.

"In do-or-die situations, the approach has to be 100 percent. You know if you lose one or two games, you are out. So as a unit, you have to give everything,"

Delhi face a tough Rajasthan side with inform performers like Yashasvi Jaiswal and youngster Vaibhav Sooryavanshi in their ranks and the Capitals will need to perform with both the bat and ball.

Munaf however dodged the question regarding the team's strategy for the all-important clash and with a smile quipped, "If I tell you the strategy now, they will be ready tomorrow."

And importantly for the Capitals, he ensured that not too many changes would be made in the lineup irrespective of the recent defeats.

Munaf Positively ends:

"There won't be too many changes. We have experienced players. It's not like you lose and start changing everything."