Mitchell Starc cleared for IPL action, arrives in India this week

Starc has been cleared to travel after overcoming shoulder and elbow issues. He and is hoping to be available for Delhi Capitals ahead of their game against Rajasthan Royals on 1 May.

The 36-year-old has not played any cricket since his injury in late January. During a match for the Sydney Sixers in the Big Bash League, he fell heavily on his left shoulder and elbow while diving for a catch.

After a break in February, he experienced some soreness when he returned to bowl, which delayed his arrival at the IPL.

But perhaps more to the point is Starc's recent workload. The seamer bowled 153.1 overs across the five Ashes Tests, with a superlative 19.93 average, which saw him being named Player of the Series.

Reports claim that Starc has had a good week of pain-free bowling at home in Sydney and is due to fly to India this week.

Starc's return to match fitness is a relief for Cricket Australia. Captain Pat Cummins has recently been cleared to bowl after recovering from a lower back problem. He'll run out for Sunrisers Hyderabad. Meanwhile, Josh Hazelwood also recently returned after four months off and has featured in Royal Challengers Bangalore's last three matches.

Incredibly, Australia are set to play 20 Tests, perhaps 21 if they qualify for the WTC final next June, between this August and August 2027.