Australian speedster Mitchell Starc has been one of the most feared bowlers of his generation, known for his lethal yorkers, raw pace, and ability to swing the ball both ways. Recently, his announcement to retire from T20 internationals has sparked a big question among cricket fans worldwide: Will Starc continue to feature in the Indian Premier League (IPL) 2026?
Starc’s Relationship with the IPL
Starc’s IPL journey has been an on-and-off affair. After an impactful stint with the Royal Challengers Bangalore, injuries and national commitments often kept him away from the tournament. However, whenever he has been available, franchises have shown immense interest in securing his services, thanks to his ability to deliver in crunch moments and dominate with the new ball.
T20I Retirement – A Window for IPL?
Interestingly, stepping away from international T20s may actually increase Starc’s chances of playing in the IPL. With fewer national commitments, he could have more availability during the tournament window. This could also allow him to manage his workload better while still competing in one of the world’s most competitive leagues.
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Why Teams Still Want Him
Despite injuries affecting parts of his career, Starc remains a match-winner. Left-arm pacers with express speed and the ability to bowl at both ends of an innings are rare commodities. IPL franchises value experience, and Starc brings not just skill but also a champion’s mindset, having delivered on the biggest stages like World Cups.
The Flip Side
On the other hand, workload management and fitness could dictate his decision. The IPL is a demanding tournament, with high-intensity matches packed into a short schedule. At this stage of his career, Starc may weigh whether continuing in the IPL aligns with his long-term goals and physical limits.
Final Word
Mitchell Starc’s retirement from T20 internationals doesn’t necessarily signal the end of his IPL journey. In fact, it might open the door wider for him to feature in IPL 2026. Fans and franchises alike will be eager to see if one of cricket’s finest fast bowlers returns to set the league alight once again.
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