Veteran Australian fast bowler Mitchell Starc has expressed his ambition to extend his international career well into the latter half of the decade, with the left-arm paceman confirming his desire to feature in the 2027 ICC Men’s Cricket World Cup.
Now 36, Starc remains one of Australia’s most accomplished modern bowlers. He is the country’s third-highest wicket-taker across international cricket, with a combined tally of 759 wickets spanning Tests, One Day Internationals and Twenty20 Internationals. Only Shane Warne and Glenn McGrath sit ahead of him in Australia’s all-time wicket charts.
Starc stepped away from T20 international cricket in September last year, choosing instead to focus on Test and ODI commitments. Despite the reduced format load, he continues to feature prominently in global franchise cricket, representing Delhi Capitals in the Indian Premier League.
The next ODI World Cup is scheduled for October–November 2027 and will be jointly hosted by South Africa, Zimbabwe and Namibia. Starc has indicated that this tournament remains a clear target, provided his body continues to hold up under the demands of elite fast bowling.
Speaking to journalists, he emphasised both his competitive drive and enjoyment of the game. He noted that playing alongside close teammates for Australia continues to be a major source of motivation. He also highlighted that, despite the physical challenges of a long career, his enthusiasm for high-level competition remains undiminished.
In recent years, Starc has managed ongoing niggles in his elbow and shoulder, though he suggested these issues are being carefully managed and have not significantly limited his performance. He also believes that reducing his T20 workload has helped preserve his fitness for longer-format cricket.
He was a standout performer in Australia’s dominant Ashes series victory over England, earning the Player of the Series award for his decisive contributions with the ball.
Career snapshot
| Category | Detail |
|---|---|
| Player | Mitchell Starc |
| Age | 36 |
| Role | Left-arm fast bowler |
| International wickets | 759 (all formats) |
| T20I status | Retired (from September last year) |
| IPL team | Delhi Capitals |
| Recent achievement | Player of the Series in Ashes vs England |
| Next major target | 2027 ICC Men’s Cricket World Cup |
Reflecting on his future, Starc made clear that he is avoiding fixed retirement timelines. Instead, he intends to let fitness and form dictate how long he continues. For now, he remains committed to international cricket and believes he still has several years left at the top level, should his body continue to respond positively.
The 2027 World Cup, he suggested, is not a guarantee—but very much an ambition he is actively working towards.