At a glance:
- Mitchell Starc hopes to continue playing international cricket until the ICC Cricket World Cup 2027.
- The veteran pacer retired from T20Is in September to focus on Tests and ODIs.
- Starc said his competitive mindset and love for representing Australia keep him motivated.
Mitchell Starc, a seasoned Australian fast bowler who hopes to extend his international career and is open to playing in the 2027 ODI World Cup, believes the excitement of the sport keeps him going. One of Australia’s most seasoned players, the 36-year-old left-arm fast bowler continues to play in both Test and one-day forms.
In an attempt to extend his career in Tests and one-day cricket, the 36-year-old left-arm bowler, who is Australia’s third-highest wicket-taker across formats with 759 scalps behind only Shane Warne and Glenn McGrath, withdrew from T20 internationals in September.
“I’m still very competitive and that’s what keeps me going,” Starc, who has already won the trophy twice, told Reuters.
“Playing for Australia alongside some of my closest mates is special. I enjoy the hard work and I still love competing, so cricket continues to be fun.”
Mitchell Starc on Dealing with Injuries
While still dealing with elbow and shoulder niggles, Starc said his body has tolerated the rigours of international cricket well.
“There’s always something to manage,” he said. “My elbow and shoulder are still being looked after, but there’s probably a little less strain now that I’m away from T20 internationals.
“After 16 years, I’m still going well and hopefully there are a few more years left in me.”
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Starc Reveals his Dream
South Africa, Zimbabwe, and Namibia will host the next ICC ODI World Cup 2027 in October and November.
“2027 is still a long way off, but hopefully I can make it there,” Mitchell Starc said. “A World Cup is always a big goal. I’ve stepped away from T20 internationals, but I’m still enjoying my cricket and will keep seeing how my body holds up.”
Starc, who made his international debut for Australia in 2010, represents the Delhi Capitals in the Indian Premier League, where the franchise ranks eighth among 10 teams. Australia won the Ashes 4-1 over England, in which he was named series player of the series.
As the ICC World Cup is on the horizon, Australia will need their pacer trio of Josh Hazelwood, Pat Cummins, and Mitchell Starc to be fully fit and lead the team to their seventh World Cup.
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