Key statistics:

• Delhi Capitals: 3 wins out of 8 matches
• Rajasthan Royals: 6 wins out of 9 matches
• Starc was bought for ₹11.75 crore in IPL 2025
• Starc became the most expensive player at ₹24.75 crore in IPL 2024 auction
• The match is a must-win for Delhi to remain in the playoff race

Before Starc’s return, Delhi struggled to find form. His shoulder and elbow injuries sidelined him during the first half of the tournament. The team lacked a key bowler, which contributed to their poor performance.

Yet, Starc’s availability may shift the dynamics. Munaf Patel confirmed, “He is available from tomorrow. Our best bowler will definitely play, but the final decision will be taken tomorrow.” This indicates that his presence could bolster the team’s morale and performance.

The rivalry between Delhi and Rajasthan is intense, with both teams winning 15 matches each historically. Ian Bishop noted, “No, I think you have to give Mitchell Starc credit. He’ll come better prepared; he won’t be Jasprit Bumrah.” This highlights expectations surrounding Starc’s readiness.

The match against Rajasthan Royals will test Delhi’s resolve. A victory is essential if they hope to keep their playoff hopes alive. Cricket Australia has indicated that Starc is ready to play from May 1 onwards.

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Initially, Dhoni was expected to return for the match against Delhi Capitals on April 11, 2026, but recent updates indicate that he will not play due to the need for continued rehabilitation. CSK CEO Kasi Viswanathan confirmed that there is no fixed timeline for Dhoni’s return, adding to the uncertainty surrounding his status.

Dhoni, who has played 278 IPL matches and scored 5,439 runs at an impressive average of 38.30 and a strike rate of 137.45, is the sixth-highest run-scorer in IPL history. His leadership and experience have been crucial for CSK, and his absence has been felt deeply by the team and fans alike.

In the previous season, Dhoni managed to score 196 runs in 13 innings, averaging 24.50. His performance, while not at his peak, still showcased his ability to contribute significantly to the team’s efforts. This season, however, CSK’s performance has faltered without him, raising concerns about their chances in the tournament.

On April 7, 2026, Dhoni was spotted practicing in the nets, which sparked hopes of a potential return. However, the reality of his rehabilitation process suggests that fans may have to wait longer to see their captain back on the field.

Young player Mukul Choudhary, who has cited Dhoni as his idol, recently shone in a match, scoring an unbeaten 54 off 27 deliveries to help his team secure a victory. Choudhary’s journey to IPL stardom reflects the influence Dhoni has had on the next generation of cricketers.

As the season progresses, CSK’s reliance on Dhoni’s leadership and skills remains evident. His absence not only affects the team’s performance but also the morale of the players who look up to him.

Details remain unconfirmed regarding when Dhoni will be able to return to competitive cricket. Fans and analysts alike will be watching closely for any updates on his recovery and the impact it may have on CSK’s season.

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“Hazlewood arrived yesterday. He is looking fit,” said Andy Flower, the coach of Royal Challengers Bengaluru (RCB), regarding the team’s star player, Josh Hazlewood. This statement comes as Hazlewood continues his rehabilitation from hamstring and Achilles injuries that have sidelined him since October 2025.

Hazlewood, who was retained by RCB for the 2026 Indian Premier League (IPL), last played international cricket in October 2025 and missed significant tournaments including The Ashes 2025-26 and the ICC T20 World Cup 2026. His absence was felt keenly by the team, especially after RCB won their maiden title in IPL 2025.

In the opening match against Sunrisers Hyderabad (SRH) at M. Chinnaswamy Stadium in Bengaluru, RCB’s captain Rajat Patidar expressed confidence in the team’s prospects, stating, “We are not defending anything, we will win in IPL 2026 as well.” This sentiment reflects the team’s determination to build on their previous success.

Hazlewood’s performance in IPL 2025 was impressive, as he took 22 wickets in just 12 matches, boasting an average of 17.55 and an economy rate of 8.77. His return to form could be crucial for RCB’s campaign this season.

Meanwhile, Jacob Duffy, who was signed for a base price of 2 crore, made an immediate impact by taking three wickets in his first three overs against SRH. This performance adds depth to the bowling lineup, which will be essential as the season progresses.

“It is great to have him here in our dressing room and in the meetings,” Flower added, highlighting the positive influence Hazlewood brings to the team environment.

As RCB prepares for the challenges ahead, Ishan Kishan emphasized the importance of trusting their instincts, stating, “We want to back our instincts.” This approach could be pivotal in navigating the competitive landscape of IPL 2026.

With Hazlewood’s presence and the team’s renewed focus, RCB aims to make a strong statement in this year’s tournament. The upcoming matches will reveal how effectively they can integrate their star player back into the lineup.

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Pat Cummins has been managing a back issue since last year, which has significantly impacted his cricketing schedule. The Australian fast bowler has played only one competitive match since July 2022, limiting his participation in key tournaments.

As the Indian Premier League (IPL) 2026 season approaches, Cummins has confirmed that he will miss the start of the tournament. The season is set to begin on Saturday, and Cummins has expressed optimism about his recovery.

In a recent statement, Cummins said, “I’m still recovering from a back injury, but it’s good. I’m back bowling in the nets every third day.” He added, “I won’t make the start of that, but it shouldn’t be too long before I’m back out there playing.” This indicates a positive trajectory in his rehabilitation process.

Looking ahead, Cummins has outlined a plan to return to competitive play in the latter half of IPL 2026. He stated, “We’ve mapped out a plan to get me right by (the) middle of the tournament, so hopefully, if nothing goes wrong, (I will) play the back half plus the finals.” This statement reflects his determination to contribute to his team, the Sunrisers Hyderabad.

In Cummins’ absence, Ishan Kishan has been appointed as the interim captain of Sunrisers Hyderabad. Kishan’s leadership experience at the local level has been noted, with Cummins commenting, “Ishan’s had a really successful captaincy stint with his local side in the last year or so.”

Additionally, Cummins has faced setbacks that have kept him from participating in the T20 World Cup, further complicating his return to the field. Observers are keenly watching his recovery progress as the Bangladesh series runs from 13 to 26 August, which could also impact his availability for future matches.

Sunrisers Hyderabad last won the IPL in 2016, and the team will be looking to improve their performance this season. With Cummins’ leadership and skills, if he returns as planned, he could play a crucial role in the team’s success.

As the IPL season unfolds, fans and analysts alike will be monitoring Cummins’ recovery closely, hoping for his swift return to competitive cricket.

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