Mitchell Starc has recently disclosed that an ankle injury significantly influenced his decision to withdraw from the Champions Trophy. Alongside this physical ailment, he hinted that "personal views" also factored into his departure from the tournament. The absence of Starc, paired with fellow fast bowlers Pat Cummins and Josh Hazlewood, leaves Australia without its premier trio of pace bowlers, creating a gap in experience within the bowling lineup. However, a successful match against Afghanistan on Friday will secure their place in the semi-finals, regardless of this setback.
Upon the announcement of the team lineup, Cricket Australia stated that Starc's withdrawal was rooted in personal reasons and was made with the full backing of the board as well as the team members. This illustrates a strong sense of unity and understanding within the team’s structure, allowing players to prioritize personal and physical well-being.
In his first comments since the squad was finalized, Starc did not elaborate on his personal views but emphasized the significance of the upcoming World Test Championship final against South Africa. He acknowledged a combination of factors influencing his removal from the squad, particularly citing ongoing ankle pain that he experienced during the Test series against Sri Lanka. Starc reiterated the importance of focusing on his fitness, stating that recovering adequately from his injury is paramount, especially with an eye on the critical Test final and an upcoming series against the West Indies. He also mentioned the IPL, indicating that while it is on his radar, his priority remains the impending World Test Championship final.
The current Champions Trophy is taking place in Pakistan, a nation known for implementing strict security measures for its sporting events, particularly cricket. Such protocols significantly restrict players’ movements and may pose additional challenges to those participating. Teams facing India are required to undertake travel to Dubai for matches, as India plays all its games at a single venue due to an arrangement set forth to ensure the successful execution of the tournament.
Starc has consistently demonstrated his commitment to the Australian team, oftentimes competing despite ongoing injuries. During a recent Test series against India, he endured considerable discomfort due to a side injury, and he notably limped throughout the second Test match in Galle where he undertook the role of sole specialist fast bowler. Should Starc compete in the World Test Championship final, as well as in all three Test matches against the West Indies, he will achieve a significant milestone, marking his 100th cap in Jamaica this July. Additionally, he is only 18 wickets shy of reaching the impressive tally of 400 wickets, a commendable feat for any fast bowler.
Regarding the upcoming Indian Premier League, Starc is contracted with the Delhi Capitals, whose season commences on March 21. Meanwhile, Cummins has returned to bowling and is preparing for participation in this tournament, while discussions indicate that Hazlewood is also making strides towards recovery and is likely to play for the Royal Challengers Bengaluru. Should these three leading bowlers regain fitness in time for the World Test Championship final, the selectors will encounter a challenging decision concerning the final composition of the pace attack, particularly given Scott Boland's strong performances making a compelling case for retention.
Starc also provided insight on the World Test Championship framework itself. He acknowledged initial skepticism regarding its value during its first cycle, suggesting that he viewed it as somewhat inconsequential. However, that perception quickly transformed into a profound appreciation when Australia narrowly missed a spot in the final due to a slow over rate. This experience amplified his desire to be a part of such a prestigious event. Starc recounted how, during the second cycle, which led Australia to the final, winning against India was significant not only in terms of competition but also in representing a monumental occasion for both teams.
While reflecting on the format, Starc maintained that the system requires adjustments for optimal functionality. He pointed out the complexity of addressing the format since it encompasses only six series contributing to the overall points system. Despite the inherent challenges, he asserted that it remains an inherently flawed yet exciting framework. The path forward necessitates constructive modifications, particularly in recognizing the differing pressures of home and away victories under the current percentage-based model.
In sum, as Mitchell Starc prepares for his upcoming commitments with the Australian team, he remains focused on recovery, a return to form, and ultimately contributing towards a repeat of success for his country in the World Test Championship. The upcoming matches will be pivotal both for him personally and for Australia’s aspirations on the international stage.