After his T20I retirement, Mitchell Starc reunites with his first BBL franchise

Australian speed Mitchell Stark It officially returns to the Big Bash League (BBL) for its 14th season, reuniting with its original franchise, the Sydney Sixers, after more than a decade. This announcement marks one of the most exciting developments ahead of BBL 15, as Starc rejoins the team where his T20 journey began.

Mitchell Starc is set to rejoin his first BBL franchise

Starc last featured for the Sydney Sixers in 2014, but his connection with the club runs deep. He was instrumental in helping the Sixers win the inaugural BBL title in 2011-12 and the T20 Champions League that followed. His return is expected to significantly boost the Sixers’ bowling attack and bring new excitement to the tournament.

Sixers general manager Rachel Hines He expressed his happiness at the signing, saying: “Mitch’s offensive prowess with the new and old ball is unparalleled and we hope he will play a vital role in our run to the finals.”

Starc’s T20I retirement opens the door for his return home

Starc’s return comes shortly after his retirement from T20 internationals, allowing him to focus on Test cricket while freeing up his schedule for domestic competitions. The move opens up a long-awaited opportunity for the left-arm pacer to join the BBL, a league in which he featured only briefly despite his global T20 stardom.

Starc is scheduled to join the Sixers after the Ashes series, which concludes on January 8, 2026, with his participation subject to fitness. Under the BBL’s supplementary player policy, he is expected to play in the final stages of the season, including the playoffs, where his experience could be crucial.

The Sixers have already assembled a strong team that includes Steve Smith, Babar Azam and Sam CurranWhich makes them among the strongest contenders for next season. The addition of Starc adds depth and leadership to their bowling unit, which could give them the edge in crucial moments.

Stark said, thinking of his return: “I can’t wait to pull on the purple Sixers jersey again. This club is close to my heart, and my goal is to help bring another title to our passionate fans.”

Read also: 3 reasons why Mitchell Starc’s retirement from T20Is is the right move

BBL|15 starts on December 14

the The 2025-26 BBL season begins on December 14 It runs through January 25, 2026. With Stark’s return, the Sixers not only gain a world-class player, but also a fan attraction whose presence promises to reignite fan enthusiasm and boost viewership for the tournament.

As Starc prepares to light up the BBL after 11 years, his reunion with the Sixers symbolizes nostalgia and a fresh start – providing fans with the perfect blend of experience, passion and intensity in Australia’s premier T20 league.

Read also: Mitchell Starc returns to the ODIs as Australia names white-ball teams for India series