Starc Discusses Absence from Champions Trophy Due to Ankle Pain and Personal Reasons

Key Takeaways

Mitchell Starc withdrew from the Champions Trophy.
His absence is due to ankle pain and personal reasons.
Starc aims to be fit for the World Test Championship Final.
Australia’s quicks performed well despite his absence.
Australia needs a win against Afghanistan to progress.

New Delhi, Feb 27 (NationPress) Australia's fast bowler Mitchell Starc has disclosed that ankle pain and personal reasons led to his decision to withdraw from the ongoing ICC Champions Trophy 2025.

The seasoned pacer was initially part of Australia's lineup but has opted out of the tournament, citing personal matters, joining captain Pat Cummins (ankle), fellow fast bowler Josh Hazlewood (hip), and all-rounder Mitch Marsh (back), who were already ruled out due to various injuries.

Starc provided insights into his withdrawal while appearing on the Willow Talk podcast in Australia, noting that the primary factor for his absence from the Champions Trophy is to ensure he is fit for the ICC World Test Championship Final against South Africa in London this June.

"There are several factors, some personal views. I experienced some ankle pain during the Test series, so I need to resolve that. Clearly, we have the Test final approaching and a tour to the West Indies following that.

"There’s also some IPL cricket on the horizon. However, the main priority is the Test final. I aim to get my body in shape, play some cricket in the upcoming months, and be ready for the Test final," Starc explained.

Starc has been pivotal in securing Australia's first World Test Championship title against India at The Oval in 2023 and has established a strong partnership with fellow bowlers Pat Cummins and Josh Hazlewood, helping them reach this year's final at Lord's.

"I remember when the World Test Championship was introduced, thinking it didn’t hold much significance. But as we got close and missed out, watching it on television made us eager to participate. Now, we find ourselves with the chance to win it for the second consecutive time," he added.

Despite Starc's absence from the Champions Trophy, the team has not felt the impact yet, with players like Spencer Johnson, Ben Dwarshuis, and Nathan Ellis performing admirably as the Australians kicked off their tournament with a win against their long-time rivals, England.

A washout against South Africa has left Australia needing a victory against Afghanistan in their final group match to advance to the knockout stage of the competition.