Mitchell Starc Confirms No Plans to Retire from Test Cricket
Starc's Commitment to Test Cricket
On Thursday, renowned Australian fast bowler Mitchell Starc stated in an interview with SEN Cricket that he has no intention of retiring from Test cricket in the near future. This announcement came after Australia secured a 4-1 victory in the Ashes series by defeating England by five wickets in the fifth Test held at the Sydney Cricket Ground. Starc played a pivotal role in this triumph, emerging as the leading wicket-taker against Ben Stokes' team.
The left-arm pacer claimed 31 wickets at an impressive average of 19.93 across 10 innings, which included two five-wicket hauls. In addition to his bowling prowess, Starc contributed with the bat, scoring 156 runs, featuring two half-centuries. With experienced fast bowlers Pat Cummins and Josh Hazlewood sidelined due to injury, Starc stepped up to take on greater responsibility. Following the Ashes victory, he expressed to SEN Cricket that he has not contemplated retirement and aims to contribute to the team in various capacities. The 35-year-old emphasized his desire to give his all while representing Australia.
Starc remarked, "Clearly, I haven't had the chance to think about it yet. I believe that simply wearing the Baggy Green cap is a significant motivation to continue playing. As long as I can fulfill my role in this team and feel I can make a meaningful contribution, I want to be out there giving my best for the team. With no T20 cricket on the horizon, I have a few weeks to reflect on my game, allow my body some rest, and then get back on the field."
He also mentioned that he plans to watch the Australia Women vs. India Women series alongside the ICC Men's T20 World Cup 2026. Starc added, "I will comfortably watch the women's team play against India, as well as the men's matches in India. I think there's been too much talk about age. The game has evolved, and life has changed. There’s no reason why men can’t play for longer, nor should there be a deadline for anyone. As I said, as long as you are contributing or are among the best players, why should there be an age limit for anyone, male or female?"