Ben Dwarshuis is targeting a regular spot in Australia's T20 pace attack after Mitchell Starc's retirement opened a rare vacancy in one of cricket's most dominant fast-bowling units.
Starc, Australia's third-highest wicket-taker across all formats with 759 scalps, stepped away from T20 internationals in September 2023, leaving a void alongside Pat Cummins and Josh Hazlewood.
Dwarshuis, 31, has played 15 T20Is since his 2022 debut and sits second on the Big Bash League's all-time wicket-takers list with 164 dismissals. He now competes with Nathan Ellis, Xavier Bartlett, and Spencer Johnson for selection.
"There's a whole handful of guys trying to get into that spot," Dwarshuis said. "Competition's fierce, but knowing there's a spot available means a potential avenue if you perform."
His performance in franchise leagues has become critical. Signed by Punjab Kings for 44 million Indian rupees ($472,462), he views the IPL as a global showcase.
"Anytime you take the field, there are eyes watching-whether from Australia or other leagues," he noted.
Asked for his dream wicket, Dwarshuis singled out Virat Kohli: "It's tough to go past taking Virat Kohli's wicket, whether it's at home or down in Bangalore."