Starc’s Comeback Headlines Australia’s Home Series Drama

After stepping away from T20Is just weeks ago, Mitchell Starc’s return has taken everyone by surprise. The left-arm quick is back for the Australia ODI squad 2025, ready to charge in again on home soil against India.

It’s the kind of twist Australian fans live for. One moment you’re reading about Starc’s retirement from a format, and the next, he’s roaring back, ready to steam through top orders once more.

This wasn’t just another routine announcement. When selectors dropped the list, the talks around Pat Cummins’ absence were immediate. The skipper’s lingering injury opened the door for Mitchell Marsh to take over once again, and honestly, he’s earned it.

Cummins Out, Marsh Leads, and Starc Steps Up

The change in leadership adds a layer of curiosity. Marsh’s calm energy contrasts sharply with Cummins’ tactical style. There’s something refreshing about seeing Marsh guide a team in transition, balancing veterans with fresh faces. That’s exactly what Australia will need when India arrives. 

The India tour of Australia is always intense; every ball, every cheer, every slip-up gets magnified. And with India’s full-strength lineup featuring Rohit Sharma, Virat Kohli, and Shubman Gill, Marsh’s men have their hands full.

Still, the Starc factor changes everything. His ability to swing the new ball, especially under lights, makes this return more than symbolic. 

Starc’s Journey Back

It’s worth remembering that Mitchell Starc's return wasn’t a guarantee. A string of injuries and workload management had many wondering if he’d ever pull on the gold jersey for ODIs again. He looks hungrier than ever. The yorkers, the bounce, the fire. Starc thrives on that stage, and few opponents ignite him like India.

Selector George Bailey called the squad “strategic.” A blend of youth and experience. Matt Renshaw and Matthew Short get another chance, while Nathan Ellis and Josh Inglis also return in the squad.

Australians believe the India tour of Australia gives us a perfect test. Every tour against India sets the tone for Australia’s cricketing summer. One series can swing momentum that lasts months. And with the T20 World Cup on the horizon, every game feels like a practice for something even bigger.

Australia ODI squad: Mitchell Marsh (c), Josh Inglis, Adam Zampa, Cameron Green, Matthew Short, Travis Head, Alex Carey, Mitchell Owen, Josh Hazlewood, Matthew Renshaw, Xavier Bartlett, Ben Dwarshuis, Nathan Ellis, Mitchell Starc, Cooper Connolly

Australia T20I squad (first two games): Mitchell Marsh (c), Marcus Stoinis, Ben Dwarshuis, Matthew Kuhnemann, Josh Inglis, Travis Head, Sean Abbott, Adam Zampa, Nathan Ellis, Matthew Short, Xavier Bartlett, Josh Hazlewood, Tim David, Mitchell Owen

India’s Tour of Australia, 2025

Sr. No.	Day	Date	Match	Venue
1	Sunday	19th October	1st ODI	Perth
2	Thursday	23rd October	2nd ODI	Adelaide
3	Saturday	25th October	3rd ODI	Sydney
4	Wednesday	29th October	1st T20I	Canberra
5	Friday	31st October	2nd T20I	Melbourne
6	Sunday	2nd November	3rd T20I	Hobart
7	Thursday	6th November	4th T20I	Gold Coast
8	Saturday	8th November	5th T20I	Brisbane