Fast bowler Ben Dwarshuis has expressed his ambition to claim a spot in the Australian national team following the retirement of Mitchell Starc from Twenty20 internationals. Starc, who ranks as Australia’s third-highest wicket-taker with 759 wickets across all formats—behind only Shane Warne and Glenn McGrath—stepped away from T20 cricket in September last year. His exit has opened a rare opportunity within a pace attack long anchored by Starc alongside Pat Cummins and Josh Hazlewood.
Dwarshuis, who debuted internationally in 2022, has so far played six one-day internationals and 15 T20 matches. He faces stiff competition for selection from other Australian pacers such as Nathan Ellis, Xavier Bartlett, and Spencer Johnson. “There’s a whole group of bowlers who have been waiting behind Starc, Hazlewood, and Cummins, who have all achieved remarkable success and left little room for others to break through,” Dwarshuis remarked. “With Mitch’s retirement, a spot has opened up, and several players are vying for it. The competition is intense, but knowing there is an opening means there’s a pathway if you perform well.”
In a significant development, Dwarshuis highlighted the growing importance of franchise leagues as platforms for players seeking international recognition. Having been signed by the Indian Premier League’s Punjab Kings for 44 million Indian rupees ($472,462), the 31-year-old is also the second-highest wicket-taker in Big Bash League history with 164 wickets. “Whenever you take the field in these competitions, there are many eyes on you, whether from Australia or other leagues. With the massive viewership these tournaments attract, a couple of strong seasons can really put you in the spotlight,” he added.
Punjab Kings, currently fifth in the IPL standings, began their campaign with a three-wicket victory over Gujarat Titans, although Dwarshuis was not selected for that match. He acknowledged the squad’s depth, especially with New Zealand fast bowler Lockie Ferguson yet to join the team. “I’m a versatile bowler who can operate in all three phases of the innings and bowl at any point during the 20 overs,” Dwarshuis said.
When asked about his most coveted wicket this season, Dwarshuis named Indian cricket legend Virat Kohli. “There are probably six or seven Indian players I’d love to dismiss, but getting Virat Kohli’s wicket, whether at home or in Bangalore, would definitely be a highlight,” he concluded.
