Melbourne : Mitchell Starc says he remains motivated by the competitive demands of cricket and hopes to continue his international career long enough to feature at the 2027 Cricket World Cup.
The 36-year-old left-arm fast bowler retired from Twenty20 internationals in September in a bid to prolong his career in test and one-day cricket.
Starc, Australia’s third-highest wicket-taker across formats with 759 scalps behind only Shane Warne and Glenn McGrath, said he was still enjoying the demands of international cricket after 16 years at the top level.
“I’m pretty competitive, so I just enjoy that aspect of cricket,” Starc told reporters on Saturday.
“For Australia, I get to play with some of my best mates. I enjoy the hard work, but I also enjoy competing, and it’s still fun.”
The next 50-over World Cup will be hosted by South Africa, Zimbabwe and Namibia in October and November 2027.
Starc admitted he continues to manage elbow and shoulder issues but said his body was coping well.
“There’s always something going on. I’ve had a bit of a niggle with my elbow and shoulder, which is still being managed, but there’s probably a little less impact in T20 cricket,” he said.
“I’m still going okay after 16 years and hopefully there are a couple more left.”
Starc, who debuted for Australia in 2010, is currently representing Delhi Capitals in the Indian Premier League.
He was recently named player of the series in Australia’s 4-1 Ashes triumph over England.
“It’s a long way down the road, but I’ll hopefully be there,” Starc said of the 2027 World Cup.
“The World Cup is always a goal for every cricketer. I’ve stepped away from T20 internationals, but I’m still enjoying my cricket. I don’t set timelines — I just see where the body is and where the cricket is.”
