Australian fast bowler Mitchell Starc has officially retired from T20 internationals. He made the announcement to focus on Test matches and One Day Internationals (ODIs).
Starc played 65 T20Is for Australia and took 79 wickets. He is the second-highest wicket-taker for the country in this format, behind spinner Adam Zampa.
In his statement, Starc said Test cricket had always been his top priority. He mentioned the Ashes series, the 2027 ODI World Cup, and the tour of India as key goals in his future.
He also said the 2021 T20 World Cup was a career highlight. Australia won that tournament, and Starc played an important role.
By stepping away now, Starc hopes to give younger bowlers time to prepare for the 2026 T20 World Cup.
Cricket Australia Supports the Decision
Chair of selectors George Bailey praised Starc’s ability to change games with his bowling. He said Starc was vital to Australia’s 2021 World Cup success.
Cricket Australia CEO Todd Greenberg also supported the decision. He said Starc had always put the team first and made personal sacrifices for the country.
Greenberg added that Starc’s retirement from T20Is opens the door for the next generation of fast bowlers.
New Faces in T20 Squad
Australia has announced its squad for the upcoming T20 series against New Zealand. With Starc stepping aside, selectors included several new and returning players.
The 14-man squad includes:
- Mitchell Marsh (captain)
- Josh Hazlewood
- Glenn Maxwell
- Ben Dwarshuis
- Sean Abbott
- Marcus Stoinis
- Adam Zampa
Pat Cummins will miss the series to manage his workload. Nathan Ellis is unavailable due to the birth of his first child.
Starc’s T20 journey ends, but he remains focused on leading Australia’s bowling attack in Tests and ODIs.
In other related news also read Mitchell Starc Achieves Remarkable Milestone Against Pakistan
