Melbourne
Australia’s left-arm fast bowler Mitchell Starc has announced his retirement from Twenty20 Internationals (T20Is) to focus on Test cricket and One Day Internationals (ODIs). The 35-year-old also hopes to stay fit for the 2027 ODI World Cup.
Starc has not played a T20I since the 2024 World Cup in the Caribbean but will continue playing Tests, ODIs, and domestic leagues like the Indian Premier League (IPL). He finishes his T20I career with 65 matches, 79 wickets, and an economy rate of 7.74. Among Australian fast bowlers, he is the leading wicket-taker in this format, while spinner Adam Zampa holds the overall record with 130 wickets.
Starc said Test cricket has always been his main goal. He recalled the joy of winning the 2021 T20 World Cup, describing it as a career highlight. He also explained that stepping away from T20Is will help him prepare for future Test tours, the Ashes, and the 2027 ODI World Cup.
Starc made his T20I debut in 2012 and played in five major ICC events, missing only the 2016 edition due to injury. His pace and ability to take key wickets often changed games in Australia’s favor.
National chief selector George Bailey praised Starc’s contributions, calling him an important member of the 2021 World Cup-winning team. Bailey said his wicket-taking ability made him a game-changer and confirmed that Cricket Australia will celebrate his T20 career at the right moment.
Meanwhile, Australia announced their T20I squad for the upcoming three-match series against New Zealand. The squad includes Mitchell Marsh as captain, with returns for Marcus Stoinis and Matthew Short.
