Sydney: Australian pacer Mitchell Starc has announced his retirement from Twenty20 internationals in order to prioritise a demanding Test cricket schedule and the 2027 ODI World Cup. The 35-year-old, who played 65 T20Is, was a key member of the Australian squad that clinched the 2021 T20 World Cup in the UAE.

A successful T20I career

Starc’s international T20 career spanned more than a decade, during which he claimed 79 wickets, placing him second among Australia’s highest wicket-takers in the format. His best bowling figures of 4 for 20 came against the West Indies in 2022. He last featured in the T20 format during the 2024 World Cup held in the Caribbean.

Reflecting on his journey, Starc said: “Test cricket is and has always been my highest priority. I have loved every minute of every T20 game I have played for Australia, particularly the 2021 World Cup, not just because we won but the incredible group and the fun along the way.”

Preparing for a busy Test schedule

Starc’s decision comes ahead of a hectic Test calendar for Australia, beginning mid-2026. The period includes a home series against Bangladesh, a tour of South Africa, a four-match series against New Zealand, and a high-profile five-Test tour of India in January 2027. Australia will also play a one-off 150th anniversary Test against England at the Melbourne Cricket Ground, followed by the Ashes in England later in 2027.

The 2027 ODI World Cup, scheduled in South Africa, Zimbabwe and Namibia during October–November, will also be a major focus for Starc as Australia aim to defend their title.

Giving bowling group time to adjust

Explaining his decision, Starc noted that stepping away from T20s would help Australia prepare for the future. “Looking ahead to an away Indian Test tour, the Ashes and an ODI World Cup in 2027, I feel this is my best way forward to remain fresh, fit and at my best for those campaigns. It also gives the bowling group time to prepare for the T20 World Cup in the matches leading into that tournament.”

Selectors pay tribute

George Bailey, chair of selectors, praised Starc’s contributions in the shortest format. “Mitch should be incredibly proud of his T20 career for Australia. He was an integral member of the 2021 World Cup winning side and, as across all his cricket, had a great skill for blowing games open with his wicket-taking ability. We will acknowledge and celebrate his T20 career at the right time, but pleasingly he remains focussed on continuing to play Test and ODI cricket for as long as possible.”

Australia announce new T20I squad

Starc’s announcement coincided with the naming of Australia’s squad for the upcoming three-match T20I series against New Zealand in October. Mitchell Marsh will captain the side, while Marcus Stoinis returns after missing the last two series. Cameron Green will skip the tour to play domestic cricket, and Nathan Ellis will also be absent due to family commitments.

The 14-member squad includes: Mitchell Marsh (capt), Sean Abbott, Xavier Bartlett, Tim David, Ben Dwarshuis, Josh Hazlewood, Travis Head, Josh Inglis, Matt Kuhnemann, Glenn Maxwell, Mitchell Owen, Matthew Short, Marcus Stoinis, and Adam Zampa.

Conclusion

Mitchell Starc’s retirement from T20 internationals closes an important chapter in his career, but his focus on Test cricket and ODIs reflects his commitment to Australia’s long-term success. As the team prepares for a challenging cycle leading into 2027, Starc’s experience and leadership in the longer formats will remain invaluable.