Mitchell Starc's latest comments spark doubts over his IPL 2027 participation.

Starc also had a disrupted IPL 2026 campaign, featuring in only six matches because of injury concerns.

Australian fast bowler Mitchell Starc has cast doubt over his participation in the Indian Premier League (IPL) 2027, with a demanding international schedule forcing him to carefully consider his workload. The left-arm pacer has not ruled himself out of the tournament, but he has made it clear that his availability remains undecided.

Starc, who represents Delhi Capitals (DC) in the IPL, could face a difficult choice between franchise cricket and Australia’s upcoming international commitments. With a landmark Test against England and the Ashes on the horizon, the experienced pacer may prioritise rest and preparation over another IPL campaign.

Mitchell Starc keeps IPL 2027 decision open

Starc has confirmed that discussions about his schedule have taken place, but no final decision has been reached.

“I’ve had a few discussions. Nothing’s concrete as yet,” Starc told reporters.

The statement suggests that the Australian speedster is still weighing his options rather than committing to the IPL or withdrawing from the tournament.

Starc has previously demonstrated his willingness to put international cricket first. He skipped the IPL between 2016 and 2023 before returning to the competition in 2024 with Kolkata Knight Riders (KKR). He subsequently joined Delhi Capitals and continued to be one of the franchise’s key overseas fast-bowling options.

However, his participation in IPL 2027 will depend on discussions with Cricket Australia, his physical condition and the demands of the international calendar.

Why could Mitchell Starc miss IPL 2027?

Australia have a packed schedule in 2027, including the 150th Anniversary Test against England at the Melbourne Cricket Ground, beginning on March 11, followed by the Ashes in England later in the year.

Australia could also feature in the ICC World Test Championship (WTC) final, depending on their position in the standings. These commitments could make workload management particularly important for the team’s fast bowlers.

At 36, Starc remains an important part of Australia’s plans in Test cricket and one-day internationals. Managing his workload carefully could help him remain available for the team’s biggest assignments.

Australian head coach Andrew McDonald has acknowledged the challenge of balancing franchise cricket with international responsibilities.

“The IPL is part of our management plan for a lot of our players, and to expose our best players in what I believe is the best competition in terms of T20 cricket has its performance benefits as well. You’ve just got to balance that out,” McDonald said.

His comments suggest that Cricket Australia recognises the value of the IPL while also considering the physical demands placed on its leading players.

Delhi Capitals could face a major setback

If Starc decides against participating in IPL 2027, DC would need to find another overseas fast bowler capable of delivering in the powerplay and at the death.

The Australian brings experience, left-arm variety and the ability to generate pace and movement. His absence would therefore require the franchise to reconsider its overseas combination and bowling plans.

Starc also had a disrupted IPL 2026 campaign, featuring in only six matches because of injury concerns. His availability and fitness will remain important factors when DC prepare for the next season.