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Delhi Capitals (DC)<\/strong> have made a confident start to IPL 2026<\/strong>, winning their opening two matches despite missing one of their biggest weapons\u2014Mitchell Starc<\/strong><\/a>. While the results have masked his absence so far, bowling coach Munaf Patel<\/strong> has admitted that the real impact will only be known when the team faces tougher situations.<\/p>\n Starc, who is currently recovering from an injury, has been undergoing rehabilitation and is expected to join the squad later in the tournament. His absence has sparked debate among fans and experts, especially considering his reputation as one of the most lethal fast bowlers in world cricket.<\/p>\n Speaking ahead of Delhi Capitals\u2019 clash with Gujarat Titans<\/strong>, Munaf provided a balanced and honest take on the situation. He made it clear that winning games naturally reduces the feeling of missing a key player, but hinted that things could change quickly.<\/p>\n \u201cRight now we have won two matches, so we are not feeling Starc\u2019s absence. But in the coming matches, if performances dip, then it will depend,\u201d<\/em> Munaf said during the pre-match press conference.<\/p>\n His statement reflects the mood in the camp\u2014positive, yet cautious. Delhi\u2019s bowling unit has stepped up collectively, ensuring that Starc\u2019s absence has not yet turned into a disadvantage. However, the tournament is long, and consistency will be the true test.<\/p>\n Despite the team\u2019s early success, Munaf did not shy away from highlighting Starc\u2019s importance. He described the Australian quick as one of the finest bowlers in the IPL and even placed him in the same bracket as India\u2019s pace spearhead Jasprit Bumrah<\/strong><\/a>.<\/p>\n \u201cHe is one of the best bowlers in the world. Right now, everyone feels we aren\u2019t missing him because we are winning. But he is our top bowler,\u201d<\/em> Munaf explained.<\/p>\n He further emphasized Starc\u2019s ability to swing the new ball at high pace, his vast experience, and his match-winning capability\u2014qualities that make him a standout performer in any T20 league.<\/p>\n \u201cBumrah is there whom you can compare with him. You can see his experience, the pace he generates, and how he swings the ball at 140-plus,\u201d<\/em> he added, underlining the value Starc brings to the side.<\/p>\n Also WATCH: Shah Rukh Khan engages in intense chat with CEO Venky Mysore as KKR\u2019s IPL 2026 woes continue<\/a><\/strong><\/p>\n Starc\u2019s absence is also linked to a broader workload management plan. The left-arm pacer last featured in the latter stages of the Big Bash League<\/strong> for the Sydney Sixers<\/strong>, after which he was sidelined due to injury concerns.<\/p>\n With Australia scheduled to play an intense calendar of 21 Test matches in the coming year, Cricket Australia are believed to be taking a cautious approach regarding his fitness. Munaf confirmed that there is currently no official update on Starc\u2019s return.<\/p>\n \u201cTill now, there is no update. The Australian board physio or trainer or doctor will update,\u201d<\/em> added Munaf.<\/p>\nMunaf Patel opens up Mitchell Starc\u2019s absence in IPL 2026<\/strong><\/h2>\n
Starc\u2019s pedigree still unmatched<\/strong><\/h2>\n
Injury management and uncertain return timeline<\/strong><\/h2>\n