Big Blow for Delhi Capitals ahead of the IPL 2025 Playoffs

Australian fast bowler Mitchell Starc has decided to leave the IPL 2025 early. He will not play in the remaining matches for Delhi Capitals (DC). Starc made this choice to prepare for the World Test Championship (WTC) Final against South Africa, which begins on June 11.

Starc’s Strong IPL Season Comes to an End

Mitchell Starc has been one of Delhi Capitals’ top performers this season. He played 11 matches and took 14 wickets at an average of 26.14. He bowled many important overs and helped the team win close games. Starc is currently the leading wicket-taker for DC.

Although the IPL 2025 final is on June 3, Starc wants to focus on his fitness and training for the WTC Final. His absence is a big loss for Delhi, especially as they are fighting for a place in the playoffs.

Faf du Plessis and Fraser-McGurk Also Unavailable

Delhi Capitals have received another blow as Faf du Plessis will also miss the rest of the tournament. The former South African captain started the season with DC but has missed recent matches due to an injury. Now, he is officially out for the rest of the league.

To make things worse, Jake Fraser-McGurk has also opted out. This leaves DC without two experienced top-order batters. Now, the team must find a new opening partner for Abhishek Porel.

Mustafizur Called In, Stubbs to Leave Soon

DC have signed Mustafizur Rahman as a replacement for Fraser-McGurk. But the left-arm pacer’s participation is still uncertain. He is currently in Sharjah for a T20I series against the UAE, and the Bangladesh Cricket Board (BCB) has not yet given him a No-Objection Certificate (NOC).

Meanwhile, Tristan Stubbs has confirmed that he will play the remaining league matches. However, he will leave before the playoffs to join South Africa’s Test team for the WTC Final.

Updates on Other Australians

Other Australian players have made different decisions. Pat Cummins and Travis Head will stay with Sunrisers Hyderabad (SRH) for the rest of their matches until May 25. SRH is already out of the playoff race, so they will have time to prepare for the WTC Final after the IPL ends.

Josh Hazlewood is waiting for a fitness update due to a shoulder niggle. Josh Inglis has not confirmed his return to Punjab Kings (PBKS). Mitchell Marsh is expected to rejoin Lucknow Super Giants (LSG) before the final phase of the tournament.

Delhi Capitals Face a Tough Road Ahead

With several star players unavailable, Delhi Capitals face a difficult challenge. They must make quick changes and find strong replacements to stay in the playoff race. Starc’s exit and other absences will test the depth and resilience of their squad in the final stages of IPL 2025.

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