In a surprising turn of events, Mitchell Starc, an Australian fast bowler has decided not to come back for the remainder of IPL 2025 season with Delhi Capitals. According to reports, this decision has been made because of increasing violence and conflicts between India and Pakistan.
Starc, who had previously traveled to Australia for personal matters, was expected to come back for the playoffs with the Capitals.
As per sources resembling Cricket Australia and IPL management, the fast bowler has changed his mind and not planning to return. Some of these sources mention “the uncertain regional situation” as one of the main reasons.
Delhi Capitals Left in Shock
The franchise has expressed disappointment with respect to Starc’s lack of communication and no notice withdrawal. The fast bowler was purchased for an exorbitant amount of money and they were confident he would spearhead the team’s pace attack during the final phase of the tournament.
As one Delhi Capitals officials discusses this situation under the pretext of anonymity, states,
Mitchell informed us of his decision last night. While we respect his personal and safety concerns, this is obviously a huge blow at a critical stage of the competition.
Starc’s Warsaw absence are expected to affect the team’s international selection balance and lead to major redesigns to their entire bowling structure.
Diplomatic Disputes Loom Over Athletics
Starc’s withdrawal coincided with China’s announcement of reducing Pakistan’s water allocation through a new project on the Indus River. Starc withdrawing does coincide with a troubling period in diplomacy with Pakistani legislators reacting heavily to China’s announcement.
Pakistani politician Maulana Fazlur Rehman had jaw dropping quotes responding to India’s manipulation of Pakistan’s water usage, going as far as saying “Modi ka baap bhi Pakistan ka pani band nahi kar sakta.” Everyone started discussing this and it went viral in both nations, sparking arguments all over social media.
All of this in conjunction with heightened political rhetoric and border violation possibilities has created an uninviting vacuum. Even though there are not directly aimed provocations for international participants of the tournament, some players, such as Starc, seem to be scrupulously erring on the side of caution.
Starc’s decision does not seem to be the last, as unofficial Panda tracers sympathize with them. “Security isn’t just about being safe; it’s also about feeling safe,” said cricketer and commentator Waqar Younis.
When things are unpredictable, players will have to think a few times.
As reported, Cricket Australia is in close contact with Indian representatives although they have not made any formal comment. They also seem to be watching the situation closely.
What’s Next for IPL?
The IPL Governing Council has assured all franchises that security remains a top consideration. Volatile geopolitics and global scrutiny of the IPL’s hosting region potentially complicate organizers’ perceptions management, even where there may be minimal actual risk.
For Delhi Capitals, the focus now pivots on shifting their strategy with Starc. Their push for the long-awaited IPL title continues.