The question on every Delhi Capitals fan’s mind right now is Is Mitchell Starc released from DC ahead of the IPL 2026 auction? Reports suggest that the franchise might consider parting ways with the Australian pacer in the upcoming mini-auction, which is expected to take place in December. While there has been no official confirmation, whispers in the cricketing circles indicate that DC could make some bold calls this time around. Among the 2026 DC released players, Starc’s name would certainly be the most surprising, considering his stature and impact.

Why DC Might Consider Releasing Starc?

From the Delhi Capitals’ perspective, there are several reasons why management might be considering this move. To begin with, Starc’s retirement from T20I cricket earlier this year may have raised concerns about his long-term availability and motivation in the shortest format. Though Mitchell Starc made it clear that he is not retiring from franchise cricket, DC might still want to invest in younger, more future-oriented bowlers ahead of IPL 2026. The team is likely considering reshaping its bowling attack, especially after finishing another season without reaching the final.

🚨 Mitchell Starc has retired from T20Is in order to prolong his international career in Tests and ODIs pic.twitter.com/yAwPhZscwm

— Cricbuzz (@cricbuzz) September 2, 2025

Financial strategy could be another factor driving this rumour. Starc was bought by DC for a hefty ₹11.75 crore in the IPL 2025 mega auction. In a mini-auction year, that amount can be crucial for restructuring the squad or bringing in balance. DC’s management might be tempted to free up purse space and go after an all-rounder or a younger overseas pacer who offers more availability across seasons. The franchise may also look at Starc’s limited participation last season’s 11 matches with 14 wickets and wonder if they are getting the best value for their money.

Another possible reason behind the speculation that Mitchell Starc in DC could be nearing its end is his selective participation in tournaments. Having missed the last leg of IPL 2025, the left-arm pacer’s commitment to the full IPL season might be questioned. For a franchise still chasing its first title, player continuity and consistent availability are vital. The management might also be wary of his recurring injuries and workload management issues, given that Starc continues to prioritise Test and ODI cricket for Australia. In that light, DC could be playing it safe but sometimes being too cautious can backfire.

Why Releasing Starc Could Be a Risky Move For DC?

While the financial and fitness logic makes sense, letting go of Mitchell Starc could easily turn into a blunder for Delhi. For starters, is Mitchell Starc released from DC would be a headline that shocks fans worldwide because he remains one of the most lethal fast bowlers in modern-day cricket.

9️⃣ runs to defend in 6️⃣ deliveries ‼

And this is what Mitchell Starc produced to take #DC to a super over 🫡

On a scale of 1-10, rate his class act ✍

Scorecard ▶ https://t.co/clW1BIQ7PT#TATAIPL | #DCvRR pic.twitter.com/ZwlCnBxzbp

— IndianPremierLeague (@IPL) April 16, 2025

With over 200 T20 wickets and a career strike rate of under 16, his numbers speak for themselves. In the IPL, Mitchell Starc in DC still produced match-winning spells, including his stunning Super Over heroics against the Rajasthan Royals in 2025. Players like him, who deliver under pressure, are extremely rare.

Mitchell Starc’s Bowling in IPL 2025

Moreover, Starc brings a level of experience that no amount of data-driven team reshuffling can replace. His ability to swing the new ball and nail yorkers in death overs makes him a two-phase bowler, a luxury every franchise wants. Delhi Capitals, who have often struggled with finishing games, that kind of experience is priceless. If he does land on the 2026 DC released players list, the franchise will immediately create a vacuum in their bowling lineup that will be difficult to fill.

Where Could Starc Fit Best if the Delhi Capitals Release Him?

Another concern is that if DC does release him, several top teams are waiting in the wings. Royal Challengers Bengaluru, his former team, could eye a reunion. Kolkata Knight Riders might want their 2024 title-winning pacer back. Even Sunrisers Hyderabad and Gujarat Titans, with strong Australian contingents, could line up bids. Once a player like Starc enters the auction, the bidding war can push his price up beyond what DC originally paid, leaving the Capitals with regret and an inferior replacement.

Conclusion

Finally, Is Mitchell Starc released from DC is not just a contractual question it’s a question of intent. A franchise that aspires to win titles needs proven match-winners in its setup, especially those who thrive in knockout scenarios. Starc has repeatedly proven his worth in such moments, from World Cups to IPL finals. Releasing a bowler of his calibre could send the wrong message about DC’s ambitions for the upcoming season. For a team yet to lift the IPL trophy, keeping an elite performer like Mitchell Starc in DC should be a no-brainer.

🚨 𝑹𝑬𝑷𝑶𝑹𝑻𝑺 🚨

Delhi Capitals might release pace duo T. Natarajan and Mitchell Starc ahead of IPL 2026! 🏏

Lucknow Super Giants might release the trio of David Miller, Akash Deep, and Mayank Yadav! 👀#DC #LSG #IPL #Sportskeeda pic.twitter.com/v2yk8mBe9d

— Sportskeeda (@Sportskeeda) October 11, 2025

If rumours are true and Starc joins the 2026 DC released players list, Delhi could regret it deeply. The answer to Is Mitchell Starc released from DC remains uncertain, but such a move might become another unforgettable blunder for the franchise.