Mitchell Starc reveals why he pulled out of Champions Trophy 2025

Australia’s fast bowler Mitchell Starc has revealed the reason behind his withdrawal from the ICC Champions Trophy 2025, citing an ankle injury as the main factor. However, he also hinted that “personal views” influenced his decision.  

In a recent interview on the Willow Talk podcast, which was co-hosted by his wife and Australia’s women’s team captain Alyssa Healy, Starc shared details about his absence from the tournament.  

"My main concern was fitness after experiencing ankle pain during Australia’s two-Test series in Sri Lanka this month," Starc said.  

The 34-year-old pacer added that his decision was not solely based on fitness issues.  

“There are a few different reasons, including some personal views,” he said, without elaborating further.  

Starc also mentioned that he wanted to focus on recovering in time for Australia’s upcoming matches.  

“I had a bit of ankle pain through the (Sri Lanka) Test series,” he said. “So I just need to get that one right. Obviously, we have the (World Test Championship) final coming up and a West Indies tour after that."  

He also acknowledged the upcoming IPL but stressed that his priority was Test cricket.  

“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,” he concluded.  

Australia entered the Champions Trophy without some of their key players, including Starc, captain Pat Cummins, Mitchell Marsh, and Josh Hazlewood.  

Despite missing top names, Australia made a strong start, defeating England in their opening match at Lahore’s Gaddafi Stadium. England had set a record-breaking total of 351/8—the highest in Champions Trophy history—powered by Ben Duckett’s 165 off 143 balls.  

However, Australia chased down the target in just 47.3 overs, with Josh Inglis smashing 120 off 86 balls. Alex Carey contributed 69 off 63, while Glenn Maxwell’s quickfire 32 off 15 deliveries secured the victory.  

Australia’s second group match against South Africa in Rawalpindi was washed out due to rain. They will now face Afghanistan in their final group-stage match in Lahore on February 28.