Mitchell Starc opted out, but Michael Clarke is roped in. What is this fuss all about? Any ardent cricket fan would be asking the same question because of the confusion. Perhaps, the Australian cricketers are the most confused in the world because of the kind of situation in which they are. It is because of the beginning of the Ashes tournament during the same time when the Season 6 of the Indian Premier League will begin. This is the first time that the players are facing this kind of tough situation. This might prove to be a big blow for IPL as well because of the star Australian players might not be available.
The Australian pacer has already rejected his IPL offer in order to remain loyal for this team by playing in the Ashes instead. The IPL has got nothing to lose because there are several more options available with many other talented players from other countries looking forward to have a stint at one of the world’s most richest leagues. Explosive batsman David Warner has already confirmed his availability who plays for Delhi Daredevils, which is led by the experienced Sri Lankan batsman Mahela Jayawardene.
“My focus is playing for Australia and IPL can wait”, says Starc. However, the rest of the in-form players like Clarke who has been having a great ball with the bat affirmed of his participation. Shane Watson is already playing a key role in the IPL matches by chipping in with key contributions whenever his side needed the most. No cricket fan can ever forget the dominance he displayed during IPL-5 matches during which he even matched histrionics with West Indies hurricane Chris Gayle as well. If not for the complete season, then at least for some part all these players will be available for sure.
Starc made the decision after a lot of deliberations. Taking a firm decision in this context is not easy as it might appear. After his tremendous display of talent for Sydney Sixers at the recently concluded Australian Big Bash, there was no looking for the IPL franchises who wanted to ensure that he is roped in for sure.
"I thought about it long and hard and had a chat with a few people and just figured that I've had a pretty big 18 months and I feel that my body just needs that time," Starc said.
"My focus is playing for Australia and IPL can wait. For me playing for Australia has always been the dream and I've got a chance to do that now. We've got a big 12 months coming and personally I'd rather take those six weeks to get myself ready for the winter over in England if I get the chance to go over there and for the summer back home. "
Starc made it a point that he can play only he is 100% confident of giving his best. Considering all these interesting developments with respect to the latest IPL season, it needs to be seen how far the Australians could contribute by still managing The Ashes tournament.
