![South African pacer replaces Starc in DC playing XI [Source: AFP]](https://onecricketnews.akamaized.net/parth-editor/oc-dashboard/news-images-prod/1775050764260_SouthAfricanpacerreplacesStarcinDCplayingXI.jpg?type=hq)
South African pacer replaces Starc in DC playing XI [Source: AFP]
Delhi Capitals invested heavily in Australian pacer Mitchell Starc last season, and he performed well for the team in IPL 2025. Hence, the expectations were high from him in the ongoing season, as the left-arm seamer was set to play as the Capitals’ lead pacer in the main XI.
However, even before the IPL 2026 commenced, the franchise was dealt a huge blow as Starc wasn’t given the NOC by Cricket Australia, and hence, his arrival was delayed. Moreover, the pacer has been working on his fitness level, and there is no fixed timeline for his comeback for the ongoing 2026 IPL.
With match-winner Starc out for an indefinite period, the Delhi Capitals needed a solid player to replace him in the playing XI for the first game against LSG, and here’s who has replaced him in the playing XI.
South African speedster replaces Mitch Starc in playing XI Vs LSG
In the IPL 2026 mini auction, the franchise invested smartly by going after South African pacer Lungi Ngidi. The tall pacer repaid the faith by performing brilliantly in the T20 World Cup 2026, and the franchise decided to repay him with a place in the playing XI to replace their main man, Mitch Starc.
Ngidi is a completely different bowler than Starc, and he offers a hit-the-deck line, which nobody else can offer in the Delhi Capitals bowling attack.
Also Read: Mitchell Starc Issues Apology To Delhi Capitals; Reveals Reason For Not Joining IPL 2026
Difference between Ngidi and Starc as a T20 bowler
In terms of quality, longevity, and experience, Mitch Starc is miles ahead of Ngidi, and he brings in a winning mindset to this Delhi Capitals side, having won the IPL in 2024. If Starc was available, he would have been used mainly as a new-ball bowler.
The left-arm pacer is mainly known for his ability to swing the ball both ways, and he has the ability to trouble the best in the world with this ability. However, Ngidi is different in terms of skillset.
The South African bowler is known for using his height to advantage, as the pacer can generate extra bounce from the surface. Moreover, as of late, Ngidi has become a reliable death-overs specialist, and this makes him a dangerous commodity.
Who won the toss today in DC Vs LSG IPL 2026 match
Delhi captain, Axar Patel had a dream start as the skipper elected to field first and put the opposition team under pressure. The Ekana Stadium will witness a freshly laid wicket, with more pace and bounce, and Capitals bowlers would look to exploit the early moisture.
DC have handed three debut caps for the IPL clash vs LSG. Pathum Nissanka, David Miller, and Ngidi will play their maiden IPL game for the franchise, with Tristan Stubbs being the fourth overseas player.
Delhi Capitals playing XI in Starc's absence
Pathum Nissanka, KL Rahul (wk), Nitish Rana, Axar Patel (c), David Miller, Tristan Stubbs, Vipraj Nigam, Lungi Ngidi, T Natarajan, Mukesh Kumar, Kuldeep Yadav
Also Read: LSG vs DC Toss Report: Axar Patel Drops Auqib Nabi In IPL 2026 Match 5
