Mitchell Starc hints at retiring from ODIs to play more franchise cricket

Mitchell Starc, one of the most formidable fast bowlers in modern cricket, has long prioritized international duties over franchise commitments. However, after a stellar performance in the 2024 IPL season with the Kolkata Knight Riders (KKR), Starc is contemplating a shift in his career focus.

The Decision to Join IPL 2024

For years, Starc stayed away from the IPL to keep himself fresh for Australian cricket. His return to the IPL in 2024, after nearly a decade, was met with excitement and curiosity. Fans and analysts alike were eager to see how he would perform in the world’s most competitive T20 league.

KKR’s record-breaking bid of INR 24.75 crore (approximately $2.98 million) made Starc the most expensive player in IPL history. This financial commitment not only highlighted his value but also added pressure for him to perform.

See Also: OTD in 2012: KKR won their maiden IPL title by defeating CSK

Early Struggles in the Season

Starc’s initial outings were challenging. In his first two games, he went wicketless, conceding 100 runs in eight overs. These performances drew criticism and raised questions about his ability to adapt to T20 cricket after a long hiatus.

Despite the rough start, Starc’s experience and resilience shone through. A match-winning three-wicket haul against the Lucknow Super Giants and a four-for against the Mumbai Indians marked his resurgence. His rhythm and confidence grew as the tournament progressed.

Dominating the Playoffs

In the first qualifier against Sunrisers Hyderabad (SRH), Starc was instrumental, with figures of 3 for 34. His ability to deliver under pressure played a crucial role in securing KKR’s place in the final.

The final against SRH was the ultimate test. Starc’s 2 for 14 in a high-stakes game underscored his match-winning capabilities. His disciplined bowling dismantled SRH’s batting lineup, leading KKR to their third IPL title.

Starc’s Reflections and Future Plans

In the post-final press conference, Starc reflected on his IPL journey and the enjoyment he found in the season. He acknowledged the balance between franchise cricket and international duties, hinting at potential changes in his future commitments.

“The last nine years, I’ve prioritised Australian cricket. I have given myself a chance to give my body a break and spend some time away from cricket with my wife as well, so that’s certainly been where my head’s been for the last nine years,” Starc said at a press conference after the IPL 2024 final in Chennai.

Considering a format drop

Starc revealed his contemplation of dropping one format, possibly ODIs, to manage his workload and prolong his career. This decision would allow him to focus more on T20 leagues like the IPL and international Test matches.

“Moving forward… look, I am certainly closer to the end of my career than the start. One format may drop off. There is long time before the next one-day World Cup and whether that format continues for me or not… it may open doors for more franchise cricket.”

Franchise cricket opportunities

With the next ODI World Cup some time away, Starc is open to playing more franchise cricket. His successful IPL stint has reignited his passion for T20s, and he looks forward to returning in KKR’s purple and gold in future seasons.

“Next year – I don’t know the schedule exactly – but I’ve enjoyed it, I look forward to being back next year and hopefully be seen in purple and gold [KKR’s colours] again. “I’ve played a lot of cricket, so I know how to manage myself. I haven’t played a lot of T20 cricket in the last few years, so for me, it was trying to find that rhythm of [the] T20 format, and trying to stay ahead of batters,” Starc said.