Mitchell Starc Hints At ODI Retirement, Eyes IPL 2025 Return With KKR

Kolkata Knight Riders (KKR) pacer Mitchell Starc has hinted at his retirement from ODI cricket after winning the IPL 2024 title in Chennai on Sunday, May 26.

The left-arm pacer excelled on the big stage, picking two crucial wickets in the powerplay as Sunrisers Hyderabad (SRH) were bundled out for 113. KKR won the match by eight wickets, clinching their third IPL title.

Starc, who became the costliest player in IPL history after KKR bought him for Rs 24.75 crore in the IPL 2024 auction, finished his campaign with 17 wickets in 14 matches. The Australian left-arm pacer returned to play in the IPL for the first time since 2015.

The 34-year-old is eager to return and play for KKR in the IPL 2025 and is considering retiring from one of the formats to make it possible. Starc mentioned that the next ODI World Cup is scheduled for 2027, and there is uncertainty over the future of the 50-over format. He believes giving up on a format will allow him to participate in overseas T20 leagues.

"For the last nine years, I have prioritized Australian cricket. I have often pulled out to give my body a break and spend time away from cricket with my wife. That's where my head has been for the last nine years," Starc said.

"Moving forward, I am closer to the end of my career than the start. One format may be dropped off as there is a long time till the next World Cup. Whether that format drops off or not, it will open doors for a lot of franchise cricket."

"I thoroughly enjoyed this season as it leads into a World Cup. The benefit of being here includes playing with some top players in a top tournament, which is great preparation for WT20. Success has been fantastic, and many players are in a good position heading into the World Cup," he added.

"I don't know the schedule exactly but I have thoroughly enjoyed it and hope to be back next year, hopefully seen in purple and gold again."

Upcoming Tournaments

The 50-over ICC Champions Trophy is scheduled for next year. Additionally, there is a World Test Championship (WTC) final set for 2025. A T20 World Cup will be held in India and Sri Lanka early in 2026.

Starc has played 89 Tests, 121 ODIs, and 60 T20Is to date. He will be seen playing for Australia in the T20 World Cup 2024 in the USA and West Indies in June.