|| CF DESK ||

Delhi Capitals all-rounder Mitchell Marsh has departed for home due to a hamstring issue during the Indian Premier League (IPL), posing a significant concern for Australia as they gear up for the T20 World Cup in June.

The 32-year-old, widely touted to lead Australia in the prestigious tournament held in the U.S. and West Indies, was sidelined for Delhi's recent clashes against Mumbai Indians and Lucknow Super Giants.

A team insider confirmed Marsh's return home but refrained from definitively ruling out his comeback to the league.

With two victories out of six matches, Delhi currently languish at the ninth spot in the 10-team league standings.

Meanwhile, Punjab Kings, positioned just above Delhi, grapple with their own injury woes, as skipper Shikhar Dhawan is likely to sit out the next couple of games due to a shoulder injury.

In Dhawan's absence, Sam Curran stepped up to lead the side in their recent three-wicket defeat against Rajasthan Royals on Saturday night.

"Having an experienced opener, somebody like Shikhar, who has experience of playing on such wickets, becomes extremely crucial," Punjab coach Sanjay Bangar said after their fourth defeat this season. We have to wait and see how he responds to the treatment. At the moment, it seems that he could be out of action for at least seven to 10 days."