In a surprising move, Australian fast bowling spearhead Mitchell Starc has announced his retirement from T20 International cricket, citing a desire to prolong his career in the longer formats of the game. The 35-year-old left-armer’s decision comes ahead of the upcoming T20 World Cup, as he sets his sights on a demanding schedule that includes the Ashes, a Test tour of India, and the 2027 ODI World Cup.
In a statement, Starc emphasized that Test cricket has “always been my highest priority” and explained that stepping away from the shortest format was “my best way forward to remain fresh, fit and at my best for those campaigns.” The veteran bowler, a key member of Australia’s T20 World Cup-winning side in 2021, has not played a T20I since the T20 World Cup in 2024.
Starc’s retirement leaves a significant void in Australia’s T20I bowling attack. He bows out as the second-highest wicket-taker for Australia in the format, with 79 scalps from 65 matches. His ability to take wickets at the top of the innings and his lethal yorkers have been a hallmark of his career.
Cricket Australia’s chief selector, George Bailey, paid tribute to Starc’s T20I career, calling him an “integral member of the 2021 World Cup winning side” and praising his “great skill for blowing games open with his wicket-taking ability.” Bailey also expressed pleasure in Starc’s continued commitment to Test and ODI cricket.
The decision is seen as a strategic one, allowing Starc to manage his workload and focus on being at his peak for the 2027 ODI World Cup, where Australia will be defending their title in South Africa, Zimbabwe, and Namibia. He will also be a crucial part of Australia’s Test plans, including a five-match series in India in early 2027 and the Ashes series.
While Starc’s retirement from international T20s is a blow, he remains available for domestic T20 leagues, including the Indian Premier League (IPL), where he has commanded record-breaking contracts. His decision to prioritize his body and a desire for a long career in the longer formats is a sign of the evolving landscape of international cricket, where players are increasingly managing their schedules to avoid burnout and extend their playing longevity.
