Australian high-speed spearhead Mitchell Starc Made a resounding return to professional cricket after almost three months, putting in a performance that quickly silenced doubts about his fitness and future.Returning from shoulder and elbow injuries, Starc wasted no time in making an impact. In his very first over, the left-arm pacer struck gold, dismissing Yashvi Jaiswal. Rajasthan Royals Quick on the back foot. As the match progressed, the Australian continued to assert his dominance. In the 17th over, he removed both Ravindra Jadeja and Ryan Parag, effectively shutting down any late surge. He finished with impressive figures of 3/40, highlighting his value and experience in high-pressure situations.
Speaking after the match, Starc reflected on his return with relief and calm confidence.“It was nice to get some nets, get back into the swing of the game. I think it was nice to get some runs in the legs, but it was nice to get back with the guys, get some training, and then obviously win tonight. So, yeah, it was nice to be back. I’ve been bowling a little bit for a few weeks, I said, trying to get my position,” Starbow said during the match. The offer“I haven’t bowled a batsman for three months until tonight. So, it’s like getting back on that pace. I’ve been playing cricket for a while, so in terms of ticking the box skillfully, I feel I’m in a position to do most of what I want to do. Tonight was a good reminder of a few things that make up the game. I think I’ll get runs in 2 overs now and I’ll be better for 2 overs after that. I come in,” he added.Despite the long layoff, he looked rusty. Starc also addressed the visible straps on his legs, which had fueled speculation about his longevity in the game. Characteristically, he rejected any talk of retirement.“A couple of things. I think we’d laugh if you’ve got three things and you’re thinking about retirement, but I’m not there yet. But no, that’s the life of cricket and the life of the world. We move on,” he concluded.
