Delhi Capitals (DC) have a big problem ahead of them in IPL 2026 as their top pacer, Mitchell Starc, has been officially ruled out for the first half of the tournament. Starc, who is presently dealing with shoulder and elbow problems, is doing rehab in Australia and is predicted to be out of the team until at least time of April 20, 2026.
Axar Patel will captain the Capitals as the team tries to keep up their performance, but the absence of their leading bowler results in a very important gap in the bowling department. While the team awaits his recovery, three elite unsold international pacers—Gus Atkinson, Jason Behrendorff, and Fazalhaq Farooqi—stand out as the most logical options to bolster the attack.
Chetan Sakariya: The In-Form Domestic Swing King
For an Indian option, Chetan Sakariya is currently making headlines with his brilliant form in domestic cricket. Sakariya, who went unsold in the auction, has recently impressed in the Vijay Hazare Trophy with a match winning four wicket haul. His ability to move the ball in the air and his natural left arm angle make him a tactical asset for any captain. Signing Sakariya would not only fill the left arm pacer slot but also allow DC to maintain flexibility with their overseas player combinations.
Jason Behrendorff: The Powerplay Swing Specialist
If the objective is to maintain the tactical advantage of a left-arm angle, Jason Behrendorff is a premier candidate. Behrendorff is a seasoned IPL campaigner, having previously excelled for MI and RCB as a new-ball specialist. His ability to swing the ball both ways in the power play makes him a direct “like-for-like” replacement for Starc’s early-overs role. His experience in Indian conditions ensures he could be a plug-and-play solution for the Capitals.
Fazalhaq Farooqi: The Master Of T20 Variations
Fazalhaq Farooqi has established himself as a global T20 mercenary with a reputation for consistency. As a left-arm pacer who excels both at the start and the death, Farooqi offers the versatility Axar Patel needs. After going unsold at his ₹1 crore base price, he is now arguably the most attractive option in the market. With a deceptive slower ball and a lethal yorker, the Afghan speedster could provide the tactical X-factor required to navigate the high-scoring Guwahati and Delhi outfields.
