Fresh after a standout performance in Australia’s 4-1 Ashes series win, Australia’s premium fast bowler Mitchell Starchas said that Test retirement is
not on his mind. The left-arm veteran was instrumental in the series win, picking up 31 wickets.
He said that the prospect of wearing the prestigious Baggy Green and contributing to the team’s success keeps him motivated. Starc dismissed the rumours of his Test retirement and explained that he has not even had time to think about retirement.
“I obviously haven't had a chance to think of it yet. I think just putting on a baggy green is incentive enough to keep going. While I'm still able to play a role in this group, and I feel like I can contribute in major ways, I'd love to keep going out there and emptying the tank for the team,” Starc told SEN Cricket.
Even in the post-match press conference, the speedster opened up on his life after the T20I retirement and how it is helping him to stay fresh for Test cricket. He further stated that even though he won’t be playing in the ICC Men’s T20 World Cup, he will be supporting the Kangaroos.
“I'll be following the boys in India, but I won't miss getting on that plane either. Yeah, I mean, that's part of the reason I gave away the T20 stuff, was trying to prolong my test career and feel like I can get some opportunities, put some time back in my body. And that's obviously paid off this series. It's not always the case, but I feel like on the last day of a five-test series, I've felt in worse condition than I have this series,” claimed Starc.
Starc in contention for ICC Player of the Month
Thanks to his incredible Ashes run, Starc has also been shortlisted for the ICC Men’s Player of the Month for December 2025. He is joined by the West Indies all-rounder Justin Greaves and New Zealand pacer Jacob Duffy.
Greaves had an incredible tour to New Zealand, scoring 283 runs at an average of 56.60 in three Tests, including an unbeaten 202* in Christchurch. Whereas, New Zealand pacer Duffy dominated the home series against West Indies, securing 23 scalps at an average of 15.43.
