Mitchell Starc’s Tense Airport Encounter with Fan Sparks Controversy – WATCH
In a startling moment captured on camera, Mitchell Starc, the Australian pace sensation and key player for Delhi Capitals, was visibly irritated during an encounter with a fan at an airport on Thursday. The incident, which has since gone viral across social media platforms, shows the left-arm quick in a rare display of frustration as he gestured for the fan to leave while repeatedly saying, “Go away”. This striking reaction, repeated three times in the short clip, has sparked widespread discussion among cricket enthusiasts about the pressures faced by international stars in the public eye.
The video, filmed outside the airport terminal, captures Starc loading his kit onto a trolley when he noticed a fan recording him. Clearly displeased, the 34-year-old bowler made no effort to hide his annoyance. This moment offers a glimpse into the challenges athletes like Starc face, balancing personal space with the demands of fame, especially during high-pressure tournaments like the Indian Premier League (IPL).
Adding to the context of this incident, breaking news confirms that Starc will not be returning for the remainder of the IPL 2025 season. According to reliable sources, as reported by TimesofIndia.com, the Australian pacer has officially informed the Delhi Capitals management of his decision. While the exact reasons for his unavailability remain undisclosed, speculation points to personal commitments or injury concerns following the suspension of the tournament due to cross-border tensions. His absence is a significant blow to DC, who have relied on his fiery bowling to unsettle opposition batsmen.
Meanwhile, Delhi Capitals have resumed preparations for the remainder of the season, holding their first training session on Thursday at the iconic Arun Jaitley Stadium. Among the overseas contingent, only Sri Lankan pacer Dushmantha Chameera was present at the session. Key players such as Faf du Plessis and Tristan Stubbs are expected to join the squad in the coming days. Additionally, team mentor Kevin Pietersen, who had returned home during the break, is slated to rejoin the camp on May 16.
As DC gears up for their next crucial fixture against Gujarat Titans on May 18 at the Arun Jaitley Stadium, the team will continue their training at the franchise facility in Aerocity on Friday. Gujarat Titans, led by their dynamic captain, arrived in Delhi on the evening of May 15 and are scheduled to train on May 16, setting the stage for an exciting clash.
In other team updates, Delhi Capitals have moved to bolster their squad by signing Mustafizur Rahman as a replacement for Jake Fraser-McGurk, aiming to strengthen their pace attack in Starc’s absence. Similarly, Gujarat Titans have brought in Kusal Mendis to fill the void left by Jos Buttler, who will miss the playoffs due to prior commitments.
Starc’s airport incident, coupled with his exit from IPL 2025, raises questions about the toll that constant scrutiny and packed schedules take on modern cricketers. With a career haul of over 300 Test wickets and a reputation as one of the world’s most lethal fast bowlers, Starc has often been in the spotlight. Yet, moments like these remind us of the human side of these sporting giants. As the IPL season progresses, fans and analysts alike will be watching how Delhi Capitals adapt to the challenges ahead without their star pacer.
What are your thoughts on Starc’s reaction and his absence from the remainder of the IPL? Drop your comments below and join the conversation. Don’t forget to watch the viral video of the airport incident circulating on social media!