Australia’s Mitchell Starc declines to play remaining IPL matches

Australian fast bowler Mitchell Starc declined to return to India for the remaining matches of the Indian Premier League (IPL), citing security concerns.

The decision came in the wake of the league’s abrupt suspension following heightened military tensions between Pakistan and India.

According to Australian media, Starc informed his franchise, Delhi Capitals, of his unavailability for the rest of the season.

He reportedly made the decision after the IPL was abruptly halted due to the escalating conflict and a temporary blackout incident during a match in Dharamsala, where his wife, cricketer Alyssa Healy, was also present.

Read: IPL suspended amid rising tensions between Pakistan and India

Healy later expressed concerns about the situation in an interview.

Meanwhile, fellow Australian pacer Josh Hazlewood is set to return to India despite recovering from a shoulder injury. He will join Royal Challengers Bangalore ahead of the playoffs.

Australian captains Pat Cummins and Travis Head are also expected to rejoin their respective teams in India. Cricket Australia is likely to issue a statement soon regarding the final availability of its players for the remainder of the IPL season.

It is worth noting that the IPL was suspended for a week last Friday, with matches scheduled to resume on May 17.