Sports News: The Indian Premier League 2025 came to a dramatic close with Royal Challengers Bangalore (RCB) scripting history. Ending an 18-year-long wait, RCB finally clinched their maiden IPL title, sparking euphoric celebrations among their loyal fans who had long dreamt of this moment. On the other hand, this season was like a big regret and unfulfilled dreams for Delhi Capitals.
Delhi started the season with a bang. It seemed that this year would change their fortunes. However, as the tournament advanced, the team's performance gradually declined. And a major reason for this decline was the sudden departure of Australian fast bowler Mitchell Starc from the IPL.
Why did Mitchell Starc leave India?
After a major terrorist attack in Jammu and Kashmir during the IPL, Mitchell Starc decided to leave India for security reasons. He said that his priority is the safety of himself and his family. The league had to be postponed for 10 days after this attack, and when the matches resumed on May 17, Starc did not return to India.
This was a shock for the fans and team management of Delhi Capitals. Starc had strengthened Delhi's bowling by taking 14 wickets in 11 matches played so far. But as soon as he withdrew from the league, the balanced bowling unit of the team suddenly became weak.
Tension in Dharamsala; Alyssa Healy was also present
On May 8, during the match against Punjab Kings held in Dharamsala, the stadium lights unexpectedly went out. The match was located near the Indo-Pak border, and security concerns increased even more in such a sensitive area. Starc's wife, Alyssa Healy, was also present in the stadium during that time. This incident probably proved to be decisive in Starc's decision.
Starc's statement: "I am comfortable with my decision."
Starc said in an interview, "What happened influenced my decision. I could not ignore what I was feeling." He further said that preparation for Test cricket in England is his next goal, and he has supported Delhi wholeheartedly.
Delhi's incomplete story
If Mitchell Starc had been on the field, perhaps Delhi's fate would have been different. Starc is not only an experienced fast bowler but also has the ability to handle the team in times of crisis. In his absence, Delhi's bowling faltered, and their batting also collapsed under pressure.
