Australian fast bowling spearhead Mitchell Starc has set his sights on a significant career goal: winning an Ashes series on English soil. The left-arm pacer, who played a pivotal role in Australia retaining the urn in the ongoing 2025-26 series, admitted that clinching a series victory in England would be a special achievement for the team.
Starc's Long-Term Vision for Test Cricket
Starc, who will be 37 years old when the next Ashes series in England commences in 2027, revealed that his decision to step away from T20 international cricket was driven by a desire to extend his Test career. "That's part of why I've given away T20 cricket, to try and prolong Test cricket," Starc stated in an interview with cricket.com.au. While he is not looking too far ahead, focusing instead on the immediate matches in Melbourne and Sydney, the ambition is clear. "I'm not thinking two years down the track just yet... But yeah, it'd certainly be nice to win an Ashes series in England," he added.
Australia's recent record in England underscores the challenge. The last two Ashes series hosted by England, in 2019 and 2023, both ended in draws, allowing Australia to retain the urn they had won in the 2017-18 season. An outright series win in England has remained elusive for the Australian side for over two decades.
Dominant Performance in the 2025-26 Ashes
Starc's form has been a cornerstone of Australia's dominance in the current home Ashes series. He has claimed 22 wickets in just the first three matches, playing a decisive role in Australia securing an unassailable 3-0 lead and retaining the Ashes with two Tests to spare.
His match-winning abilities were on full display during the tense final day of the third Test in Adelaide. Chasing a mammoth target of 435, England mounted a defiant comeback, narrowing the equation after lunch. With veteran spinner Nathan Lyon injured, Starc stepped up for the hosts. He broke a stubborn partnership by dismissing Will Jacks for 47, thanks to a spectacular catch by Marnus Labuschagne, and then cleaned up Jofra Archer for 3. His three-wicket haul on the final day paved the way for Scott Boland to finish the match, bowling England out for 352.
The Road to 2027
Starc's commitment to the longest format signals his intent to be part of the Australian squad that tours England in 2027. His current fitness and wicket-taking prowess suggest he remains a potent force. The focus for now remains on completing the ongoing series strongly, but the veteran's declaration has set a long-term target for himself and the Australian team. Winning the Ashes in England remains one of the ultimate prizes in cricket, and Starc is clearly motivated to achieve it before hanging up his boots.
The Australian team, having successfully retained the urn at home, will now look to build a squad capable of breaking their English drought. Starc's experience and skill will be crucial if he manages to maintain his pace and fitness until the 2027 contest.
