His £1.5 million deal could lose over a third of its value
Mitchell Starc has opted not to return to the Indian Premier League, potentially costing the cricketer up to £500,000.
He cited safety concerns and the upcoming World Test Championship final.
The fast bowler becomes the most high-profile Australian to exit the IPL early, informing the Delhi Capitals he will not rejoin the tournament following its postponement and resumption amid political unrest between India and Pakistan.
Starc had been involved in a match last week that was abandoned due to air-raid warnings near Dharamshala. It is reported that he told his team he would not be flying back.
His decision clears his schedule ahead of the WTC final between Australia and South Africa, which begins on June 11, 2025, at Lord’s. It also distances him from a resumed IPL season, now pushed back to end on June 3.
While other top Australians will return to India, including Pat Cummins and Travis Head, Mitchell Starc always appeared reluctant.
The league was halted last week amid host nation India’s military clashes with Pakistan. A temporary truce has allowed the tournament to continue from May 17.
Jake Fraser-McGurk, Starc’s teammate, has also withdrawn. Josh Inglis is still weighing his return to the Punjab Kings.
Meanwhile, Josh Hazlewood is monitoring a shoulder injury before confirming his availability for the Royal Challengers Bengaluru.
Players who were present for the abandoned Punjab vs Delhi match have shown greater caution about resuming participation.
Alyssa Healy, Starc’s wife and captain of the Australian women’s team, also fled Dharamshala last week.
On the Willow Talk podcast, Healy said:
“There was a lot of anxiety around the Australian group because we didn’t have a whole heap of information as to what was going on.
“That’s probably been the really interesting and probably the scariest part of this whole situation, the misinformation.”
“Quite close to what’s being fought over, but we were assured everything was fine, ‘everything is OK, it’s miles away, the game will go ahead and everything will be fine’.”
Starc’s decision may carry serious financial consequences. IPL player contracts are typically paid pro rata for the games they are available.
His £1.5 million deal could lose over a third of its value if Delhi makes the finals.
Even if the Capitals fail to qualify, Starc stands to forfeit about £300,000.
There are also long-term implications. Some players fear that missing this year’s IPL could impact their future selection by franchises.
Since debuting in the IPL in 2014, Mitchell Starc has only played four seasons. He has consistently placed national duties and fitness above the T20 league.
Loading ...