Mitchell Starc Contemplates ODI Exit for More Franchise Cricket

Mitchell Starc, a name synonymous with fiery pace and match-winning spells, is contemplating a significant shift in his cricketing career. The Australian speedster, fresh off a victorious IPL season with Kolkata Knight Riders (KKR), hinted at potentially stepping away from One-Day Internationals (ODIs) to embrace more opportunities in franchise cricket.

A Decade of Dedication to Australian Cricket

For nearly a decade, Starc has been a cornerstone of Australian cricket. His commitment to the national team often saw him forgo lucrative IPL contracts, prioritizing rest and time with his family over the cash-rich league. "The last nine years, I've prioritized Australian cricket. I've given myself a chance to give my body a break and spend some time away from cricket with my wife as well," Starc shared during a press conference after the IPL 2024 final.

The IPL Triumph and Its Impact

Starc's decision to return to the IPL this season proved to be a masterstroke. Despite a shaky start, where he went wicketless in his first two games, Starc found his rhythm, culminating in crucial performances during the playoffs. His spell of 3 for 34 in Qualifier 1 and 2 for 14 in the final against Sunrisers Hyderabad (SRH) were pivotal in KKR securing their third IPL title. Reflecting on his IPL journey, Starc said, "I've thoroughly enjoyed this season. 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."

A Shift Towards Franchise Cricket

As Starc nears the twilight of his career, he acknowledges that his priorities might shift. "Moving forward… 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," he mused.

The Allure of the IPL

The IPL, with its glitz, glamour, and competitive edge, has always been a tempting prospect for cricketers. Starc, who had previously played for Royal Challengers Bengaluru in 2014 and 2015, mostly skipped the tournament to remain fit for international duties. However, his recent success with KKR might have rekindled his interest. "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," he added.

Managing the Transition

Starc's experience and adaptability were evident in his IPL performances. Despite his limited T20 appearances, he managed to adapt and excel, showcasing his ability to remain a formidable force in the shortest format. "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 explained.

The Future Beckons

As Starc weighs his options, his potential exit from ODIs could mark the end of an era for Australian cricket. Yet, it could also herald a new chapter in franchise cricket, where his skills and experience could shine on a global stage. Whether he continues to don the green and gold or opts for more stints in franchise leagues, one thing is certain: Mitchell Starc will remain a name to reckon with in the world of cricket.