Mitchell Starc has become the first Australian star to confirm he won’t play in this summer’s Big Bash League as negotiations loom on future player availability.

This summer shapes as crucial for the competition out of the Covid-19 pandemic, with Cricket Australia desperate to have as much top-line talent playing as often as possible.

Australia’s multi-format stars are expected to be available for a sizeable part of it, with January’s one-day series against South Africa set to be cancelled.

But that won’t alter Starc’s position, who does not see himself featuring any time soon.

The 32-year-old quick last played for the Sydney Sixers in 2014-15, while also forgoing close to $10 million in possible salaries since then.