IPL 2019: Starc to miss out after KKR dismiss him via text message

David Cooper - Writer 14:34 14/11/2018
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  • Mitchell Starc

    Mitchell Starc may not take part in the 2019 edition of the Indian Premier League.

    The Australian will instead focus on preparing for the World Cup after Kolkata Knight Riders dismissed him this week via text message.

    Starc, at US $1.47 million, was one of the most expensive buys in this year’s annual bidding war but a stress fracture in his lower right leg forced him out of the tournament.

    The Knight Riders have since informed him that he will not be part of their plans for the upcoming edition.

    “I got a text message two days ago from the owners of Kolkata saying I’ve been released from my contract,” Starc told reporters in Sydney.

    “At the moment I’ll be home in April.”

    The 2019 IPL auction is due to take place next month and Starc is considering missing out entirely, suggesting he will skip the tournament to rest and prepare for the World Cup in June followed by the Ashes tour.

    “If I don’t play the IPL next year it’s a good opportunity to freshen up for a massive six months of cricket in the UK,” he said.

    “At the moment for me I just want to play as much Test and one-day cricket for Australia as I can.

    “The IPL is a lovely bonus on the pay packet but if I miss that to play more Test matches, I’m taking that option.”

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