Despite the lucrative money on offer, Mitchell Starc, one of the best pacers of the current age, avoids playing in T20 competitions throughout the world, including the IPL, because he prefers to perform at his “best” for Australia.
Starc places a high value on representing Australia in Test cricket, and he believes that many young people will take this road in the future.
Many of Starc’s coworkers have participated in international T20 competitions like the IPL and Big Bash, but the left-arm bowler has avoided the temptation.
“I liked it (the IPL), and I liked my time at Yorkshire ten years ago, but Australia will always be first,” the speaker said. Money may come and go, but I have no regrets about anything because I’m glad for the opportunities I’ve had,” Starc stated.
Less than 500 men have represented Australia in Test cricket over the past 100 years; this fact alone makes being a part of it very remarkable.
“The traditionalist in me still believes that there is a generation of young people who desire to play Test cricket for their nation. Franchise cricket, however, offers quick money and a fast pathway to fame,” he continued.
The 33-year-old is certain that Test cricket will continue to be his first priority for the foreseeable future. He last played franchise cricket in 2015 for the Royal Challengers Bangalore in the IPL.
“I’d certainly love to play in the IPL again, but my goal for a long time has been to be at my best for Australia, no matter the format,” Starc said.
Australia defeated India by a score of 209 runs on Sunday to win their first World Test Championship and became the first team to capture all ICC trophies. They had already won the ODI, T20, and Champions Trophy.
“After a Test victory, nothing makes me happier than to relax with my teammates and take stock of our week’s achievements. To be able to play on the baggy green alongside many of my close friends, players I’ve played the game with my whole life,” Starc remarked.
“Franchise cricket is amazing, but in a year you can be bought, sold, or swapped, but this is a chance (playing Tests) that I’ve been privileged to enjoy for more than ten years now…To be able to pull on the baggy green with many of my close friends, players I grew up playing with.
“Will they still be so aggressive with the Ashes on the line if we get classic English surfaces, which nip around, and if the overhead conditions play a part? We’ll probably find out, the fast bowler added.
- Do Indian players value IPL more than playing for India?
- Yes: they are greedy for money.
- No: they are committed to India
- Can’t say
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