Bibhash Lodh, BS News Agency: Mitchell Starc gave cricket fans a big shock when he appeared on a recent episode of the ‘Keepin’ It Cricket’ podcast! However, the Aussie fast bowler quickly turned the whole matter into a joke. At one point, during a discussion about his workload and Test plans, he said in a light-hearted manner that he might ‘move to the sunset’ after playing the next 19 Tests. Starc’s sudden comment immediately caught the attention of his wife and former Australian women’s team captain Alyssa Healy, who was also present on the podcast. The 36-year-old pacer brought up this intriguing topic of retirement while sharing his plans for the next 18 months. This time, the left-arm pacer aims to play a total of 21 Test matches. He has already played 2 matches, so he has 19 Tests left in his current schedule. After that, I may disappear into the sunset, I don't know! But I am definitely not the first person among my teammates to retire. ' He said this completely in a joking tone. But the immediate reaction of his wife Alyssa Healy, who was right next to him, made the moment even more memorable. The scene of Healy's initial surprise and then bursting into laughter made that part of the podcast special. However, Starc quickly clarified the situation, thinking that his joking comment might send the wrong message about retirement. Stating that retirement is not knocking on the door at all, he said that he intends to go much further in international cricket. He may have announced the date of his future retirement - Mitchell Starc has given an open explanation on the whole matter soon after causing such confusion due to a joke he made. The Aussie fast bowler clearly stated that he still has a lot of games left in international cricket. Starc said he still has a 'long way to go' in his career.
He won't even be the first among his teammates to retire from international cricket.
"No, not at all! I have a long way to go. I don't think I'll be the first among my teammates to retire," Starc said. "Yes, everything is going really well and nicely. I had a bowling session with Pat (Cummins) this morning. I'll have another bowling session before I get on the plane to South Africa and then I'll join the rest of the team there. So overall, everything is going great." Starc made these comments during Australia's preparations for the upcoming tour of South Africa. Referring to bowling practice with captain Pat Cummins, he said he plans to get another taste of the ball before he leaves to join the squad. Australia have a busy international schedule ahead of them, and this upcoming tour will provide Starc with a great opportunity to fine-tune his form and preparation.
All in all, Starc has no intention of saying goodbye to international cricket just yet. For now, the left-arm pacer wants to focus on Test cricket, the 2027 ODI World Cup and managing his fitness and workload properly.