Marcus Stoinis, the all-rounder from Australia and the latest addition to the Punjab Kings, is really excited about diving deep into T20 cricket for as long as he can. He’s looking up to big names like MS Dhoni and Faf du Plessis for inspiration on how to keep his game strong. At 35, Stoinis made the move to retire from one-day internationals, especially since he wasn’t in the mix for Australia’s Test team. His focus now is all about making a name for himself in the T20 format, traveling around the world to play when he can.
He’s just signed a hefty contract worth Rs 11 crore with Punjab Kings for IPL 2025. Stoinis is really ready to give his all for the team. He’ll be playing alongside Ricky Ponting, who’s stepped in as the head coach, and it looks like Punjab Kings are gearing up for a fresh start this season. “I love the game of cricket, but I also really enjoy staying fit and maintaining a healthy lifestyle,” Stoinis shared with PTI, right before his debut with Punjab Kings. He pointed out how players like Faf du Plessis, who is still in fantastic shape at 40, serve as a great example for him. “Faf’s energy is through the roof. I think we have similar mindsets, so that’s the path I want my career to take,” he said.
He went on to reflect on how we’re in a unique time where players can stretch their careers a bit longer. Even someone like MS Dhoni, who’s 43 now, is still a key player for Chennai Super Kings, defying expectations and proving he has a lot left to give.
Stoinis has made it clear that he’s still available for T20 internationals with Australia. He explained that his ODIs retirement was a strategic move since the next 50-over World Cup is two years away. Just before the Champions Trophy, he announced his retirement from ODIs, even though he was picked for Australia’s squad for that tournament in Pakistan and Dubai. “Absolutely, I’m still here for T20 action with Australia. I thought this was the right time to step away from ODI cricket,” he stated.
He’s committed to sticking with T20 cricket and aims to keep his playing days going for as long as possible. “I’m competitive at heart and want to be out there playing as long as I can. Making this decision helps me to manage my schedule better without burning out. T20 is my bread and butter—that’s where I fit best,” he added.
You’ll catch Marcus Stoinis in his first game with the Punjab Kings when they take on the Gujarat Titans in Ahmedabad this Tuesday.
