Starc’s Spectacular IPL Return with KKR
Australia fast-bowler Mitchell Starc has hinted at retiring from One Day Internationals (ODIs) after securing the IPL2024 title with Kolkata Knight Riders (KKR). The left-arm pacer, who had prioritized international cricket for many years, now contemplates shifting his focus more towards franchise cricket, including the lucrative IPL.
Starc’s Journey Back to IPL
Firstly,Starc’s return to the IPL has been nothing short of remarkable. After years of staying away to manage his workload and fulfill national duties, his decision to rejoin the league paid off handsomely, culminating in a title win with KKR. At a press conference following KKR’s dominant win over Sunrisers Hyderabad (SRH) in the IPL2024 final, Starc shared his thoughts on this potential shift in his career.
Reflecting on His Priorities
“The last nine years, I’ve prioritized 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.
“Moving forward… look, I am certainly closer to the end of my career than the start. One format may drop off. There is a 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.”
Enjoying the IPL Season
Starc’s impressive performance throughout the IPL season has made a strong case for his continued involvement in franchise cricket. “I’ve thoroughly enjoyed this season,” he said. “It’s been great, it leads into the World Cup, that’s the other side of the benefit of being here against some amazing players in an amazing tournament. It’s a great lead-up to a World Cup.”
“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.”
From Tough Start to Match-Winning Performances
Despite being the most expensive player in IPL auction history, fetched for Rs. 24.75 crore by KKR, Starc had a challenging start to the season. He conceded 100 runs in his first two games without taking a wicket. However, his performance significantly improved as the tournament progressed.
Starc’s match-winning figures of 3-34 and 2-14 in Qualifier 1 and the final, respectively, against SRH showcased his ability to perform under pressure. His efforts were crucial in KKR’s dominant campaign, culminating in a resounding victory in the final.
Looking Ahead: More Franchise Cricket?
Starc’s potential decision to drop ODIs from his cricketing calendar could lead to more appearances in franchise cricket. This shift would allow him to manage his workload better while still participating in high-level competitions. His stellar performance in the IPL has already proven his value in the shortest format of the game.
“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 concluded.
A New Chapter for Starc?
As Mitchell Starc contemplates the next phase of his cricketing career, fans and analysts alike will be watching closely. His potential retirement from ODIs marks a significant shift, but it also opens new opportunities for him to shine in franchise cricket. Starc’s journey back to the IPL2024 has already been a remarkable success, and his future in the sport promises to be equally exciting.
With the World Cup on the horizon and the possibility of more franchise commitments, Starc’s decisions in the coming months will shape the latter part of his career. For now, his contributions to KKR’s IPL2024 triumph stand as a testament to his enduring skill and dedication to the game.
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