SYDNEY: Australia’s left-arm pace spearhead, Mitchell Starc, has confirmed his withdrawal from the upcoming Champions Trophy, despite being initially named in the squad. The 35-year-old pacer revealed that his decision was influenced by a lingering ankle injury as well as “personal views.”
Speaking on the Willow Talk podcast, Starc explained that while fitness was a concern, other factors also played a role in his decision. “I had a bit of ankle pain through the Test series, so I just need to get that one right. Obviously, we have the Test final coming up and a West Indies tour after that,” Starc said.
Starc emphasized that his primary focus remained on Australia’s long-format commitments, particularly the World Test Championship final against South Africa at Lord’s in June. “The main one at the top of my mind is the Test final. Get my body right, play some cricket in the next couple of months, and then be ready to go,” he added.
Though Starc did not elaborate on the personal views he mentioned, his decision comes as the Champions Trophy returns to the international calendar after an eight-year hiatus. The tournament is primarily being hosted in Pakistan under tight security measures due to the country’s ongoing security challenges, including insurgencies and political instability.
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The event has also been surrounded by controversy, particularly after India refused to play in Pakistan, leading to matches being hosted in Dubai instead. This arrangement has sparked criticism for disrupting the competitive balance, as other teams are continuing to travel within Pakistan for fixtures.
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