Mitchell Starc, the Australian fast bowler, revealed that he almost participated in the 2023 Indian Premier League (IPL) auction with just a click of a button. However, he ultimately decided not to take part to prioritize spending more time with his family
Starc, who was named Australian Men's Cricket of the Year earlier this year, stated that he opted out of the IPL to spend quality time with his wife, fellow Australian cricketer Alyssa Healy, and his loved ones. This decision was made keeping in mind the importance of maintaining a healthy work-life balance.
Australia's team management has recently speculated that Mitchell Starc's choice of not participating in the Indian Premier League (IPL) might have affected his T20 performance in recent years. The challenge of playing all three formats as a fast bowler has been highlighted, with Starc being a victim of the same.
Mitchell Starc, a star Australian pacer, will not be part of IPL 2023 as he opted against registering himself for the auction itself. He believes that Test cricket is “far above” other formats and to ensure he can continue his red-ball career, he suggested a staggered white-ball retirement
Starc's surprising exclusion from the Australian playing XI against Afghanistan on Friday raised a few eyebrows. He was also demoted from his usual position of opening the bowling attack after conceding 14 runs in the first over of the World Cup campaign against New Zealand, which eventually led to Australia's exit from the tournament.
Starc, who has been a regular in all three formats for Australia, has not played in the IPL since 2015 and the Big Bash League (BBL) since 2014. This decision was taken to rest during those periods and to remain fresh for international duty. Although his choice not to participate in franchise cricket has earned him widespread praise in Australia, it has come at a significant personal financial cost, given what he could potentially earn in an IPL auction.
On Tuesday, Mitchell Starc revealed the real reason behind his decision to not participate in franchise cricket, such as the Big Bash League (BBL) and the Indian Premier League (IPL). He explained that he wants to spend time at home with his wife, Alyssa Healy, who is also a well-known cricketer. Juggling his cricket schedule with three formats is already challenging, and his wife's schedule adds another layer of complexity. Therefore, when he is not on national duty, he prefers to be with his wife, and the IPL usually coincides with Cricket Australia's leave period. In fact, Starc values spending time with his wife so much.
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