Mitchell Starc retires from T20 internationals to focus on Tests and ODIs

Australian fast bowler Mitchell Starc has officially announced his retirement from Twenty20 Internationals (T20Is). The announcement came on Tuesday, marking the end of a significant chapter in his cricket career. Starc explained that he wants to dedicate his full energy and focus to the longer formats of the game — Test cricket and One Day Internationals (ODIs). By doing so, he hopes to achieve new milestones in the years ahead and remain in peak form for the big challenges that lie before him.

Over the course of his T20 career, Starc played 65 matches and picked up 79 wickets. This outstanding record places him as Australia’s second-highest wicket-taker in T20 Internationals, behind only spinner Adam Zampa. His consistent ability to take crucial wickets at important moments highlights the massive impact he has had on the Australian team in this format. Starc’s fiery pace, deadly yorkers, and control made him one of the most feared bowlers in world T20 cricket.

Speaking about his decision, Starc expressed his deep love for cricket while making it clear that Test cricket will always be his top priority. He said:

“Test cricket is and has always been my highest priority. I have loved every single T20I I played for Australia, and the memories from the 2021 T20 World Cup are particularly special. It was not just about winning the tournament, but also about the incredible group of players we had and the fun we shared throughout that journey. Looking ahead to the upcoming away Test series in India, the Ashes, and the ODI World Cup in 2027, I believe the best way forward for me is to stay fresh, fit, and focused on these longer formats. This also gives the rest of the bowling group time to prepare themselves for the T20 World Cup in the lead-up games.”

Starc’s absence has already led to some changes in team planning. On the same day as his announcement, the selectors revealed the squad for the upcoming series against New Zealand. This shows that Australia is already working on building a strong T20 side for the future, giving opportunities to other bowlers to step up and fill the gap left by Starc.

Chair of National Selectors, George Bailey, praised Starc for his contributions in the shortest format of the game. He said:

“Mitch should be incredibly proud of what he achieved in T20 cricket for Australia. He was a key player in our 2021 T20 World Cup victory and had a rare skill of turning matches around with his wicket-taking spells. His ability to break partnerships and swing the game in our favor was invaluable. While we will celebrate his T20 career at the right time, it is great to see him still committed to Test and ODI cricket for as long as possible.”

Cricket Australia’s CEO, Todd Greenberg, also lauded Starc’s decision, emphasizing that it was the right move for his career at this stage. He said:

“It’s important for Mitch to make choices that will allow him to continue playing Test and ODI cricket at the highest level for as long as he can. We fully support his decision and respect the thought he has put into it. His career in T20s has been remarkable, but his focus on Test and ODI formats will benefit Australian cricket greatly in the years to come.”

Mitchell Starc’s retirement from T20Is marks the end of an era, but it also signals the beginning of an exciting new phase in his career. Fans will continue to see him spearheading Australia’s bowling attack in Tests and ODIs, where his experience, pace, and determination will be crucial in upcoming series and major tournaments. His legacy in T20 cricket, especially the unforgettable 2021 World Cup triumph, will always remain a proud part of Australian cricket history.

READ MORE: MS Dhoni Likely to Join Indian Team as Mentor for T20 World Cup 2026