Mitchell Starc informed of Kolkata Knight Riders release via text message

Starc is now likely to opt out of the upcoming Indian Premier League draft, set to take place in mid-December, and give himself a period of rest next April ahead of the World Cup and the Ashes

Mitchell Starc has been released from his contract with Kolkata Knight Riders.

The Australian seamer, who missed the 2018 Indian Premier League campaign due to a leg injury, was informed of the news via a text message earlier this week.

Starc is now likely to opt out of the upcoming IPL draft, set to take place in mid-December, and give himself a period of rest next April ahead of the World Cup and the Ashes.

"I got a text message two days ago from the owners of Kolkata saying I've been released from my contract," Starc told reporters in Sydney. 

^{Mitchell Starc has been released from his IPL contract}

"At the moment I'll be home in April.

"I obviously didn't go last year with my tibia injury and it was a great opportunity to freshen the body up, let everything heal by itself.

"I guess barring a little niggle in my hammy I've felt pretty good with my body and my strength and the rest of it.

"That little period of time has really paid off for the body. If I don't play the IPL next year it's a good opportunity to freshen up for a massive six months of cricket in the UK."

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