Cricket fans worldwide have reason to cheer as one of the leading fast bowlers in contemporary cricket, Australia’s Mitchell Starc, has expressed his desire to make a return to the Indian Premier League (IPL) in the upcoming 2024 edition. Starc, whose international commitments have often taken precedence over franchise cricket, last graced the IPL stage with the Royal Challengers Bangalore (RCB) back in 2015. Now, he sees the IPL as an ideal platform to prepare for the ICC T20 World Cup slated for the same year.
In a recent conversation on the Willow Talk Cricket Podcast, the 33-year-old pacer opened up about his intention to participate in the IPL, particularly in light of a relatively quiet home season for Australia.
Mitchell Starc’s Anticipated IPL Return
“Look, it’s been eight years. I’m definitely going back in [next] year. Amongst other things, it’s a great lead-up to the T20 World Cup,” Starc announced during the podcast.
With conviction, he continued, “So a good opportunity to see if anyone’s interested in the IPL, then lead into the T20 World Cup. And it’s somewhat of a quiet winter next year in comparison to this winter, so I think a perfect opportunity to put my name in.”
This announcement has caught the attention of cricket enthusiasts and IPL followers alike. Starc’s return to the IPL could infuse a new level of excitement into the tournament, and his experience and skills could significantly impact the performance of any franchise fortunate enough to secure his services.
Starc’s IPL Journey So Far
Mitchell Starc has already left his mark on the IPL, having featured in 27 matches for the RCB across two seasons and bagging an impressive 34 wickets. In 2018, he was picked up by the Kolkata Knight Riders (KKR), but due to Australia’s demanding cricket calendar, he had to withdraw from the league.
A Strategic Move Ahead of the T20 World Cup
Starc’s decision to return to the IPL aligns perfectly with his preparation for the ICC T20 World Cup. The IPL, known for its competitive environment and international talent pool, will provide Starc with valuable match practice and the chance to fine-tune his skills in the shortest format of the game. It’s a strategic move that could benefit both Starc and the Australian national team as they aim for success on the global stage.
As fans eagerly await Starc’s return to the IPL, the 2024 edition of the tournament promises to be an even more thrilling spectacle. Mitchell Starc, with his express pace and ability to swing the ball, will undoubtedly be a player to watch, both in the IPL and the T20 World Cup, as he looks to make a resounding impact on the world stage once again.