Introduction
Mitchell Starc, Australia’s top left-arm bowler, has finally spoken out about his decision to skip the 2025 Champions Trophy. The seasoned fast bowler’s primary reasons for missing the competition were a sore ankle and upcoming international commitments. However, Starc also revealed that he will be playing for the Delhi Capitals in the Indian Premier League (IPL), marking his much-anticipated comeback.

Starc’s Decision to Skip the Champions Trophy 2025
Starc was initially included in Australia’s preliminary squad for the Champions Trophy 2025, which is being held in Pakistan and the UAE. However, when the final 15-member squad was announced, Starc’s name was absent. Cricket Australia initially cited personal reasons, but Starc later clarified that injury concerns and preparation for the ICC World Test Championship Final were the main factors behind his withdrawal.
Speaking on the Willow Talk podcast, Starc explained:
I had a bit of ankle pain through the Test series, so I just need to get that one right. Obviously, we have the Test final coming up and a West Indies tour after that. There is some IPL cricket as well. But the main one at the top of my mind is the Test final. Get my body right, play some cricket in the next couple of months, and then be ready to go for the Test final.
Prioritizing Fitness for the World Test Championship Final
Starc played a crucial role in Australia’s victory against India in the 2023 ICC World Test Championship Final and is now focused on regaining full fitness for the upcoming final against South Africa at Lord’s in June. The fast bowler emphasized the importance of ensuring his body is in peak condition before participating in major cricketing events.
The Test final is my number one priority. I need to ensure that I am fully fit and ready to contribute to the team’s success, said Starc.
In Starc’s absence, Australia’s bowling attack has been well-supported by the likes of Nathan Ellis, Ben Dwarshuis, and Spencer Johnson, who have maintained a high standard of performance.
IPL 2025: Mitchell Starc’s Comeback with Delhi Capitals
After missing multiple IPL seasons, Mitchell Starc will make his IPL comeback in 2025 with Delhi Capitals. Given his reputation as one of the most lethal T20 bowlers in the world, this news has thrilled IPL fans and betting enthusiasts.
With Australia’s frantic cricketing schedule—including a three-Test tour of the Caribbean and the World Test Championship Final against South Africa on June 11—managing player workloads is crucial. Starc, along with Pat Cummins (ankle) and Josh Hazlewood (calf), is expected to be fully fit for the Test final, strengthening Australia’s pace attack.
Starc on the World Test Championship Format
Reflecting on the World Test Championship, Starc acknowledged its significance but suggested that the tournament structure could be improved.
When it was introduced, I remember thinking it didn’t mean much. But once we missed out and watched it on TV, we realized how much we wanted to be part of it. Now, we have a chance to win it for the second time. The format still needs some tweaking, but the final will be a battle between two strong teams.
Conclusion
Mitchell Starc’s decision to skip the Champions Trophy 2025 was a strategic move to prioritize his fitness for the World Test Championship Final. However, his much-awaited IPL 2025 comeback with Delhi Capitals has IPL betting tips excited. With Starc, Josh Hazlewood, and Pat Cummins set to return, Australia will remain a dominant force in international cricket.
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