Australian pacer Mitchell Starc opens up on why he regularly skips IPL and BBL

Australian fast bowler Mitchell Starc is undoubtedly one of the finest pacers in modern-day cricket. The lanky paceman is known for scintillating speed, utmost accuracy, and exceptional ability to deliver inch-perfect yorkers, irrespective of the formats.

Apart from being a sure-shot match-winner for Australia, the left-armer is also popular for not giving much attention to franchise cricket. Be it the Big Bash League (BBL) or the Indian Premier League (IPL), Starc has often skipped season after season to fully focus on his bowling in the international circuit.

Recently, the New South Wales pacer opened up about denying the franchise cricket and said his main focus has always been playing for Australia, and his stance hasn’t changed a bit. Starc said he has enjoyed playing in T20 tournaments, but his main goal has always been to be fully fit to represent Australia in the international arena.

In early 2018, Starc had joined Kolkata Knight Riders (KKR) but was ruled out due to an injury. He then opted out of the 2022 IPL mega auction, citing bubble fatigue as the reason. Now, the left-arm pacer has confirmed that he will not play in the upcoming edition of BBL as well. Notably, the 32-year-old last played in the BBL for Sydney Sixers in 2014-15.

“I have always enjoyed the BBL when I have played it … but my approach with all franchise cricket hasn’t changed over the last seven years,” Starc said ahead of Australia’s second Test against Sri Lanka, as quoted by ESPNcricinfo.

“My approach to the IPL, BBL, I have looked at the Australian schedule and wanting to be as fit and well-performed for that as I can. And franchise cricket has taken a back seat,” he added.

After the ongoing tour in Sri Lanka, Australia will play white-ball series against Zimbabwe, New Zealand, India, England and West Indies, as well as the T20 World Cup at home. Starc cited the schedule and also said he likes to spend time with his family.

“The schedule in the next 18 months is ridiculous. I will always keep Australian cricket front of mind, and then franchise cricket (second). I also like spending time at home and seeing my wife (Australian women’s team wicketkeeper-batter Alyssa Healy),” Starc added further.