Alyssa Healy shuts down pregnancy speculation after Mitchell Starc’s withdrawal

Alyssa Healy has reassured cricket fans that her husband, Mitchell Starc, is doing well after the veteran fast bowler withdrew from Australia’s Champions Trophy campaign due to undisclosed "personal reasons." Addressing speculation, Healy also clarified that she is "definitely not pregnant" after former cricketer Brad Haddin humorously posed the question.

Australian pacer opts out of Champions Trophy for ‘personal reasons’

Starc’s withdrawal is a significant blow to Australia's Champions Trophy hopes, as he joins fellow pace stars Pat Cummins and Josh Hazlewood on the sidelines. While Cummins and Hazlewood are nursing injuries, Starc's absence has sparked speculation, with some suggesting he might simply need a rest after playing all seven home Tests against India and Sri Lanka this summer. Others have theorized that concerns over traveling to Pakistan, where the tournament will be held, might have played a role in his decision.

Social media buzzed with rumors linking Starc’s absence to personal matters concerning Healy, similar to Virat Kohli’s break last year when his wife, Anushka Sharma, was expecting their second child. However, speaking on the Willow Talk podcast, Healy dismissed such speculation and assured fans there was no major issue.

"He'll be right," Healy stated. "He's fine." She also addressed the pregnancy rumors, adding, "Hadds (Brad Haddin) suggested maybe I was pregnant, but I can guarantee that I'm not. Yeah, we're fine."

Selectors back Starc’s decision

Australia’s chairman of selectors, George Bailey, voiced his support for Starc’s decision, praising the bowler’s dedication to international cricket.

"We understand and respect Mitch's decision," Bailey said. "Mitch is deeply respected for his commitment to international cricket and the priority he places on performing for Australia.

"His well-documented ability to play through pain and adversity, as well as forgoing opportunities in other parts of his career to put his country first, should be applauded. His loss is, of course, a blow for the Champions Trophy campaign but does provide an opportunity for someone else."

Australia will now need to reshuffle their bowling attack ahead of the tournament, which kicks off on February 19.

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