"Mitchell Starc's Emotional Promise After IPL Victory: Details Inside!"

 Mitchell Starc Hints at Retirement from a Format after Winning IPL Title: ‘Hope to Return in Purple and Gold’

Mitchell Starc has suggested he may retire from one of the international cricket formats, likely ODIs, to focus more on franchise leagues.

Kolkata Knight Riders' leading fast bowler, Mitchell Starc, expressed his desire to rejoin IPL 2025 with the same team colors. Starc was acquired by KKR for a whopping INR 24.75 crore in the IPL 2024 auction, following his crucial role in the team's third IPL victory. He was instrumental in both the qualifier 1 and the final against Sunrisers Hyderabad, earning him the Player of the Match titles and proving his worth to KKR.

Starc made a comeback to the IPL this season after a lengthy absence, his last stint being in 2015 with Royal Challengers Bengaluru. Initially, he had opted out of the lucrative league to prioritize Australian cricket, but his perspective has shifted as his career progresses.

The star bowler hinted at potentially retiring from one of the international cricket formats, likely ODIs, to focus more on franchise leagues.

"After prioritizing Australian cricket for the past nine years, I've often withdrawn to give my body a break and spend quality time with my wife. That has been my focus for the last nine years," said the 34-year-old Starc after his standout performance in the IPL final for KKR.

"As I move forward, I realize I'm closer to the end of my career than the beginning. Dropping one format could open doors for more franchise cricket, given the long wait until the next World Cup," added the Australian paceman.

Starc, who secured both the World Test Championship and the ODI World Cup titles with Australia last year, noted the beneficial preparation the IPL offers for the T20 World Cup 2024.

"This season has been immensely satisfying, serving as a lead-up to the World Cup with incredible players and an amazing tournament. It's fantastic to see many players in good form heading into the World Cup," he remarked.

He also expressed hope of representing KKR again in the future.

"While I'm unsure about the exact schedule, I've thoroughly enjoyed my time here and look forward to potentially returning next year, hopefully sporting the purple and gold once more."