Mitchell Starc reveals reason behind his withdrawal from Champions Trophy

Ace Australia pacer Mitchell Starc has finally opened up on the reasons behind his withdrawal from the Champions Trophy 2025, revealing that an ankle injury was the main factor. However, he also pointed out some personal views that played a role in making the decision.

Notably, Starc’s absence, along with fellow fast bowlers Pat Cummins and Josh Hazlewood, has left Australia with an inexperienced pace attack in the tournament. Cricket Australia had initially stated that the pacer had withdrawn for personal reasons with full support from the board and the team management. His absence, along with that of Cummins and Hazlewood, significantly impacted Australia’s bowling strength, leading them to rely on a less experienced pace attack.

Despite this, a victory against Afghanistan on (Friday) February 28, to be played in Lahore, will secure the Aussies a place in the semi-finals. When questioned about his decision, Mitchell Starc did not elaborate on his personal views but revealed that managing his fitness ahead of crucial Test assignments was a priority.

“There’s a few different reasons, some personal views, and had a bit of ankle pain through the Test series [against Sri Lanka]. So just get that one right, obviously, we’ve got the Test final coming up and a West Indies tour after that. There’s some IPL cricket as well, but my main one top of my mind is that Test final so get my body right, play some cricket in the next couple of months and then be ready to go for the Test final,” Starc told the Willow Talk podcast.