Australian fast bowler Mitchell Starc is poised to make a long-awaited return to the Big Bash League (BBL) this summer, marking his first appearance in the competition in 11 years. The 35-year-old has signed with the Sydney Sixers for the 15th edition of the T20 tournament, reigniting excitement among fans of the men in magenta.
Starc’s last BBL appearance dates back to the 2014/15 season. During his tenure with the Sixers, he has taken 20 wickets at an impressive average of 14.85 across ten matches since his debut in 2011. His contributions were pivotal in helping the Sydney franchise secure its inaugural title that summer, and he was also part of the squad that clinched the Champions League trophy in 2012.
Starc’s Journey and Return
The announcement comes as a surprise to many, given Starc’s absence from the BBL due to international commitments and the need to manage his workload. Earlier this year, Starc retired from T20 internationals to focus on Test and ODI cricket, while keeping options open for T20 leagues like the Indian Premier League.
On Thursday morning, the Sixers confirmed that Starc had signed a marquee supplementary player contract, a move he had considered in previous seasons. His return is eagerly anticipated, as he expressed his enthusiasm in a statement: “I can’t wait to pull on the Sixers’ fresh magenta playing shirt. Over the past decade I’ve stayed close to the club and, all things going to plan, am excited to get back on the field this summer.”
Impact on the Sixers and the BBL
Starc will miss the first half of the Big Bash due to Ashes commitments, with his participation in specific Sixers games to be determined later. However, if fitness permits, he is expected to feature in the Sydney derby against the Thunder at the SCG, a match that could also see cricket stars like Steve Smith, David Warner, Ravichandran Ashwin, and Babar Azam in action.
Rachael Haynes, Sixers General Manager, highlighted Starc’s value to the team: “When the opportunity arose to bring Mitch back to the Sixers, we didn’t hesitate. Mitch’s strike power with both the new and old ball is unmatched, and we hope he will play a vital role in our push towards the Finals.”
“Even when not playing in recent years, Mitch has shown himself to be a great ambassador for the club, and we look forward to that leadership playing a major role on and off the field.” – Rachael Haynes
Historical Context and Future Implications
Starc’s return to the BBL is not just a boost for the Sixers but also for the league itself, which has seen fluctuating participation from international stars due to scheduling conflicts. His involvement could set a precedent for other top-tier players to reconsider their participation in domestic leagues.
Historically, the BBL has been a platform for emerging talents and seasoned players to showcase their skills, and Starc’s presence could elevate the competition’s profile. His decision to prioritize the BBL over other commitments underscores a potential shift in how players balance international duties with domestic competitions.
The Sixers will kick off their BBL campaign on December 14 against the Scorchers in Perth. As the season unfolds, all eyes will be on Starc and his impact on the team’s performance, as well as the broader implications for the league.
As cricket fans anticipate the upcoming season, Starc’s return is a reminder of the enduring allure of the BBL and its ability to draw top talent back into the fold. The move represents a significant moment for the Sydney Sixers and the competition as a whole, promising an exciting summer of cricket ahead.
