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Australia ace pacer Mitchell Starc is set to join Pakistan star batter Babar Azam at the Sydney Sixers in the Big Bash League (BBL) 15.
The announcement came via the Sixers’ social media handle, where the team wrote about the Pacer’s return to the side.
“After 11 seasons, Mitch Starc is back in magenta. He’s expected to link up with the squad following the Ashes series,” the caption read.
Starc, who recently announced his retirement from T20I cricket, highlighted his post-Ashes commitments.
“I’ve got no cricket scheduled between the fifth Test and the IPL at this stage,” Starc said
“An opportunity to play some BBL cricket, I’ve obviously been a part of the small part of the Sixers throughout the 15 seasons, so it’s nice to return to potentially a playing role.
Obviously, we’ve got the five Test matches to focus on, first and foremost. But post that, it’s obviously my intention to be available to play some part if called upon,” he remarked.
The left-arm pacer’s last appearance in the tournament came in the 2014-15 BBL edition. Overall, he has represented the side in 10 matches, scalping 20 wickets at an impressive average of 14.85 and an economy rate of 7.92.
Starc’s addition will bolster an already stacked Sixers side, featuring the likes of Babar Azam, Steve Smith, and Josh Hazlewood.
For context, BBL 15 is expected to be one of the most anticipated seasons in the tournament’s history, with various stars from around the globe set to take the stage at the end of this year.
Notably, Pakistani players were among the popular selections in the BBL 15 overseas draft held earlier this year.
Babar Azam was roped in by the Sydney Sixers, whereas Mohammad Rizwan and Shaheen Afridi were drafted by the Melbourne Renegades and the Brisbane Heat.
Haris Rauf, a regular in the BBL, was retained by Melbourne Stars, the franchise where he has become a fan favourite over the years with his pace and aggression.
The opening match of the BBL 15 will be played between the Sydney Sixers and the Perth Scorchers on December 14 in Perth.
READ: Asian Cup Qualifiers: Otis misses penalty as Pakistan held by Afghanistan
