australian speedster Mitchell Starc The Big Bash League (BBL) is officially returning for the 14th season with its parent franchise Sydney Sixers after more than a decade. This announcement is one of the most exciting developments ahead of BBL 15, as Starc rejoins the team from where his T20 journey began.
Mitchell Starc ready to rejoin his first BBL franchise
Starc last played for the Sydney Sixers in 2014, but his ties to the club run deep. He was instrumental in helping the Sixers win their inaugural BBL title in 2011–12 and then the Champions League T20. His return is expected to significantly strengthen the Sixers’ bowling attack and bring new excitement to the tournament.
Sixers general manager Rachael Haynes Expressing happiness over the signing he said, “Mitch’s strike power with both the new and old balls is unmatched and we expect him to play a vital role in driving us towards the final.”
Starc’s T20I retirement opens the door for his domestic comeback
Starc’s return came soon after his retirement from T20 Internationals, freeing him up from his schedule for domestic competitions as well as allowing him to focus on Test cricket. The move opens up a long-awaited opportunity for the left-arm fast bowler to rejoin the BBL, a league he has only played in for a short period of time despite his global T20 stardom.
Starc is set to join the Sixers after the Ashes series, which ends on January 8, 2026, with his participation dependent on fitness. Under the BBL supplementary player policy, he is expected to play in the latter stages of the season, including the playoffs, where his experience could prove decisive.
The Sixers have already built a powerful team Steve Smith, Babar Azam And Sam CurranWhich makes them one of the strongest contenders for the upcoming season. The addition of Starc brings both depth and leadership to their bowling unit, potentially giving them an edge in crunch moments.
Reflecting on his return, Stark said, “I can’t wait to wear the Sixers’ magenta shirt again. This club is close to my heart, and my goal is to help bring home another trophy for our passionate fans.”
Also read: 3 reasons why Mitchell Starc retiring from T20Is is the right move
BBL|15 starts from 14th December
BBL 2025-26 season starts from 14th December And will run till January 25, 2026. With Starc’s return, the Sixers have not only got a world-class bowler but also a crowd-puller, whose presence promises to reignite fans’ excitement for the tournament and increase viewership.
As Starc prepares to light up the BBL after 11 years, his reunion with the Sixers symbolizes both nostalgia and a fresh start – providing fans with the perfect blend of experience, passion and power in Australia’s premier T20 league.
Also read: Mitchell Starc returns to ODI, Australia announces white ball team for India series
