Australian and KKR spearhead Mitchell Starc is thinking of retiring from ODI cricket to play in T20 leagues. In a post-match press conference after winning the IPL title, Starc expressed his desire to return and play in the tournament next year. The fast bowler acknowledged that he has prioritised representing Australia over the past 9 years, but stated that this focus is set to shift slightly as he nears the end of his career.
In the 2024 IPL auction, Starc was acquired for a record-breaking Rs 24.75 crore, the highest price ever paid in the league’s history. This sparked widespread surprise and scrutiny, as Starc had not played in the IPL since 2015. His performance was below-par in the first phase, drawing significant criticism. However, the pacer bounced back strongly in the latter half of the tournament, delivering when it mattered the most.
Starc, who had thoroughly enjoyed his stint in the IPL this season, confirmed his availability for next year’s tournament. He expressed hope that he would love to play for the Kolkata Knight Riders in 2025.
“From the past 9 years, I have prioritised playing for the Australia, which has allowed me to take breaks and spend time with my wife. As I near the end of my career, I am.thinking of retiring from one format. While the next ODI World Cup is still far away, playing in T20 franchise tournaments could become a bigger part of my future. This season has been extremely enjoyable, as it leads into the T20 World Cup, which features amazing players and has been a tremendous success for me,” said Starc.
“Although I’m uncertain of the exact schedule, I thoroughly enjoyed my experience this year and eagerly waiting for the next season, hopeful that the colors will once again be purple and gold,” he continued.
Starc’s availability would complicate KKR’s retention decisions, which are already challenging. KKR will have to carefully select from a champion team that includes Rinku Singh, Shreyas Iyer, Andre Russell, Sunil Narine, Phil Salt, and Harshit Rana.
The Australian spearhead will depart for the USA in the coming days and join the Australian national team before their opening group-stage match at the ICC T20 World Cup 2024.