Ahead of his 100th Test match against the West Indies, Mitchell Starc reflects on his career choices, expressing no regrets about skipping franchise cricket like the IPL and PSL. The left-arm pacer emphasizes his dedication to Test cricket and the importance of family time, prioritizing his physical fitness and commitment to the Australian team.

Mitchell Starc Doesn’t Regret Skipping Franchise Cricket for Test Commitment

As Mitchell Starc prepares to step onto the field for his 100th Test match against the West Indies in Jamaica, he reflects on his career choices with a sense of fulfillment. The left-arm pacer, who made his Test debut in 2011, is on the brink of becoming only the second fast bowler in Australian history to reach the milestone, following the legendary Glenn McGrath. Notably, Starc has deliberately distanced himself from franchise cricket, including prominent leagues like the IPL, PSL, and MLC, to prioritize his long-term commitment to Test cricket and family life.

A Focus on Test Cricket

In an era where players often chase lucrative contracts in franchise cricket, Starc stands out for his dedication to the longest format of the game. He has been vocal about his love for Test cricket, describing it as the "toughest format." In a recent media interaction, Starc stated, “I didn’t want to leave this opportunity when I got it. I don’t regret all the years I didn’t play franchise cricket.” His commitment to the national team has been unwavering, and he clearly views his role in Tests as paramount.

The Journey to 100 Tests

Starc’s journey to 100 Tests is a testament to his resilience and skill. With a remarkable ability to generate pace and swing, he has become a backbone of the Australian bowling attack. Over nearly a decade, he has taken 395 wickets, establishing himself as one of the premier fast bowlers in the world. His recent performances, including a five-wicket haul in a crucial match against England, further underscore his importance to the team.

Distancing from Franchise Cricket

Starc's relationship with franchise cricket has been complicated. He initially played in the IPL for the Royal Challengers Bangalore in 2015 and 2016 but ruled himself out of the 2017 season. He later joined the Kolkata Knight Riders in 2018 but was sidelined due to injury, which limited his participation in the league. After a prolonged break from T20 leagues, he made a return to IPL in 2024 with KKR and joined the Delhi Capitals in 2025.

Despite these forays into franchise cricket, Starc's absence was largely by design. He firmly believes that prioritizing Test cricket has allowed him to maintain peak physical condition. “I wanted my body to be fully fit to play for Australia,” he explained, emphasizing the importance of being healthy and ready for international duties.

Family First

Another significant reason behind Starc's decision to step back from franchise cricket is his commitment to family. He expressed how spending time at home with his wife, Alyssa Healy, and family has been invaluable. “I played 99 Tests, spent some time at home, and spent time with my wife and family. That was the reason I made the decision,” he said. The balance between professional obligations and personal life is essential for many athletes, and Starc's focus on family showcases his values beyond the cricket field.

Looking Ahead

As he approaches his 100th Test, Starc's focus remains on contributing to the team and succeeding in the match against the West Indies. He understands the significance of this milestone, not just for himself but for Australian cricket. The upcoming match presents an opportunity for Starc to solidify his legacy as one of the greats in Australian cricket history.

Conclusion

Mitchell Starc's decision to forgo franchise cricket in favor of Test cricket and family time is a reflection of his priorities as an athlete and a person. With his career milestone on the horizon, he stands as an example of dedication, resilience, and the importance of balance in life. As he steps onto the field in Jamaica, fans and teammates alike will celebrate not just his achievements, but the journey that has brought him to this momentous occasion.