Australian fast bowler Mitchell Starc has announced his retirement from T20 internationals, saying he wants to focus on extending his career in Tests and ODIs.
The left-arm pacer, who played 65 T20Is and claimed 79 wickets, leaves as Australia’s second-highest wicket-taker in the format behind Adam Zampa.
Starc said Test cricket had always been his “highest priority” and highlighted upcoming challenges such as the Ashes, an away series in India, and the 2027 ODI World Cup as key goals.
“I have loved every minute of every T20 game I have played for Australia, particularly the 2021 World Cup,” Starc said, adding that stepping aside now will also give younger bowlers time to prepare for next year’s T20 World Cup.
Tributes from selectors and cricket Australia
Chair of selectors George Bailey praised Starc’s role in Australia’s 2021 World Cup triumph, saying his ability to “blow games open with wicket-taking spells” was invaluable.
Read also: Pakistan batter Asif Ali announces retirement
Cricket Australia CEO Todd Greenberg backed the decision, noting it was made to extend Starc’s Test and ODI career. “Mitch has prioritised playing for his country and made significant sacrifices. Allowing the next crop of fast bowlers a clear path is another example of putting team first,” he said.
Australia names squad for New Zealand
With Starc unavailable, selectors announced the T20 squad for the upcoming New Zealand series. The 14-man squad includes left-arm quick Ben Dwarshuis, Josh Hazlewood, and Sean Abbott.
Key updates:
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Mitch Owen returns from a concussion layoff
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Marcus Stoinis and Matt Short rejoin after injuries
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Nathan Ellis misses the series due to the birth of his first child
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Pat Cummins will sit out with a lumbar bone stress issue as part of his workload management
Mitchell Marsh (c), Sean Abbott, Xavier Bartlett, Tim David, Ben Dwarshuis, Josh Hazlewood, Travis Head, Josh Inglis, Matt Kuhnemann, Glenn Maxwell, Mitchell Owen, Matthew Short, Marcus Stoinis, Adam Zampa.
While his T20 career closes, Starc remains committed to leading Australia’s pace attack in Test cricket and ODIs. His focus is firmly on the next Ashes series and the long road to the 2027 World Cup.
