Mitchell Starc is back—and he’s not going anywhere anytime soon. After a three-month injury layoff, the Australian pace ace returned to the field with a statement performance that silenced any whispers about his future in the game.

Taking the ball for the first time since nursing shoulder and elbow issues, Starc looked sharp from the very first over. He wasted no time making his presence felt, dismissing Yashasvi Jaiswal early and putting the Rajasthan Royals on the defensive. As the innings progressed, the left-arm quick turned the heat up in the 17th over, sending both Ravindra Jadeja and Riyan Parag back to the pavilion. His final figures of 3/40 were a testament to his class and composure under pressure.

Speaking after the match, Starc admitted the return wasn't without its challenges—but the relief was clear. "It's nice to get some cobwebs out, get back to the speed of the game," he said with a smile. "I've been bowling a little bit for a period of weeks, just trying to position my elbow so I can manage the movement. I hadn't bowled to a batter for three months until tonight, so it's sort of getting back to that speed pretty quickly."

He also acknowledged the physical toll of the game, noting that the 20-over run would only help him settle into the tournament. "I think I'll be better for the run in the legs," he added, looking ahead with quiet confidence.

But perhaps the most telling moment came when Starc was asked about the visible strapping on his legs. Retirement rumors have swirled in recent weeks, but the veteran pacer brushed them off with characteristic humor. "Not quite there yet," he laughed, making it clear he's still got plenty of fire left in the tank.

For fans of fast bowling—and for anyone who loves seeing a champion rise from a setback—Starc's return is a reminder that some players just don't stay down for long. And with the tournament now in full swing, cricket lovers everywhere will be watching to see what he does next.