IPL 2024: Starc suggests giving up one format to focus on franchise cricket opportunities

Australian pacer Mitchell Starc, known for his commitment to the national team, is considering giving up one format of the game to make room for more franchise cricket in his schedule. The 34-year-old, who was instrumental in Kolkata Knight Riders’ IPL victory, hinted that he might prioritize T20s over ODIs in the future.

Starc, who was bought for a record 24.75 crore by KKR, expressed his willingness to explore more opportunities in franchise cricket as he nears the end of his career. With the next 50-over World Cup not until 2027, Starc sees a window to focus on T20 leagues.

The left-arm pacer mentioned that his experience in the IPL will help him prepare for the upcoming T20 World Cup in the West Indies. He also expressed his desire to continue playing for KKR in the future.

Starc acknowledged the differences between IPL pitches and those in the West Indies, predicting more assistance for spinners in the upcoming tournament. He emphasized the importance of a balanced team composition in international T20 cricket compared to the high-scoring matches seen in the IPL.

Despite facing criticism earlier in the IPL for his hefty price tag, Starc remains unfazed and focused on contributing to his team’s success. As he looks ahead to his future in franchise cricket, Starc’s decision to potentially prioritize T20s over ODIs could mark a significant shift in his career trajectory.