As the Tata IPL 2025 prepares to resume following a one-week suspension, Delhi Capitals (DC) have been dealt a major setback. Star pacer Mitchell Starc may not return for the remainder of the season, according to Australian media outlet News Nine. With the playoff race heating up and IPL 2025 match predictions growing tougher, DC’s campaign now faces significant uncertainty.

The IPL was suspended after tensions escalated along the India-Pakistan border post Operation Sindoor. The game between Punjab Kings (PBKS) and DC in Dharamsala was abruptly canceled midway due to air raid threats in neighboring areas. In the aftermath, several overseas players flew home or shifted to the UAE, leaving franchises scrambling for clarity on their availability. The uncertainty is heightened by upcoming international fixtures, especially for players like Starc.

Starc, who was bought by DC for ₹11.75 crore, has been both expensive and effective. Despite leaking runs at an economy rate of 10.23, he remains DC’s top wicket-taker with 14 wickets, including a stellar five-wicket haul. During the abandoned PBKS clash, Starc conceded 23 runs in two overs. However, the looming World Test Championship (WTC) Final between Australia and South Africa, set to begin June 11, could explain his absence. If DC reaches the IPL final, expected around May 30 or June 1, Starc would have minimal time to prepare for the red-ball format.

DC also have young Aussie batter Jake Fraser-McGurk in the squad, though he’s not expected to leave as he has no international commitments. The opener has managed just 55 runs in six innings and has mostly warmed the bench this season.

On May 11, Sports Tak reported that the BCCI has instructed all franchises to regroup their players and prepare for the tournament’s restart. The revised schedule will be announced soon. Notably, PBKS will no longer play in Dharamsala or Mullanpur due to security concerns and will move their home games elsewhere, possibly impacting pitch conditions and match dynamics.

The abandoned DC vs PBKS game will resume, though its date hasn’t been confirmed yet. The outcome of that match will play a crucial role in determining playoff qualifications. DC currently sit fifth on the IPL 2025 points table with 13 points from 11 matches. To keep their playoff hopes alive, DC will need to win at least two of their remaining three fixtures.

The absence of Starc could heavily impact their bowling attack, which has relied on his ability to pick up crucial wickets despite his economy issues. With playoff qualification hanging by a thread, every match becomes a must-win for Rishabh Pant's side.

For fans, punters, and fantasy league players, the remainder of the season promises unpredictable twists. Want to stay ahead of the game with real-time match predictions, fantasy insights, and live streaming? Sign Up now on Winexch – your one-stop platform for all things Tata IPL 2025. From in-depth pitch reports and player stats to Prediction odds and expert predictions, Winexch keeps you updated every ball of the way. Don’t miss the action – the road to the playoffs is only getting more intense!