Australia’s pace spearhead Mitchell Starc has opened up about his absence from the ongoing Champions Trophy, citing a combination of injury and personal reasons as the primary factors. The 35-year-old fast bowler was a surprising omission from the Australian squad for the tournament, particularly as the team was already dealing with the absence of fellow pace bowlers Pat Cummins and Josh Hazlewood due to injuries.
In a recent interview on the Willow Talk podcast, co-hosted by his wife, Australian captain Alyssa Healy, Starc explained that while the soreness in his ankle was a significant concern, other “personal views” also influenced his decision to step back from the competition.
The Ankle Soreness Concern
Starc first experienced ankle pain during Australia’s two-Test series in Sri Lanka last month, a key factor in his decision to withdraw from the Champions Trophy. He admitted that his fitness was the top priority, as he needed time to fully recover.
“I had a bit of ankle pain through the Test series in Sri Lanka,” Starc shared. “So I just need to get that one right. Obviously, we have the World Test Championship final coming up and a West Indies tour after that.”
Personal Views Remain Unexplained
While Starc confirmed that his injury was a major factor, he also mentioned that “personal views” played a role in his absence. However, the fast bowler chose not to elaborate on these views, leaving fans and pundits speculating about the nature of his decision. The Champions Trophy, currently being held in a highly secure environment, is still one of the biggest events in world cricket, so his omission raised eyebrows.
Starc’s decision to sit out the tournament comes as part of his broader focus on long-term fitness, especially with the World Test Championship final against South Africa scheduled for June, followed by a three-Test tour of the West Indies.
Looking Ahead: A Packed Schedule for Starc
Looking ahead, Starc’s calendar is packed with high-stakes cricket. He will be gearing up for the World Test Championship final, a crucial series for Australia, as well as the upcoming tour of the West Indies. On top of that, he’s also set to play in the Indian Premier League (IPL) for the Delhi Capitals, which begins next month.
As the only member of Australia’s “Big Three” fast bowling unit to play in all seven of the country’s recent Test matches against India and Sri Lanka, Starc has had a demanding schedule. His focus now is on maintaining peak fitness, aiming to be in top form for the Test final and subsequent international commitments.
Starc’s Return: A Key for Australia
With the busy cricketing calendar ahead, Starc’s return to full fitness and form is crucial for Australia’s chances in the World Test Championship final and the West Indies tour. His absence from the Champions Trophy leaves a gap in the Australian attack, but fans will be hoping that the rest will allow him to shine in the months ahead.
Will Starc’s decision to rest and recover lead to a strong performance when he returns to the field? Cricket fans worldwide will be watching closely to see how his body responds to the intense schedule that lies ahead.
