Mitchell Starc Announces Retirement from T20 Internationals, Focuses on Tests and ODIs
Sydney(The Uttam Hindu): Australian pace spearhead Mitchell Starc has announced his retirement from T20 international cricket with immediate effect. The 35-year-old left-arm fast bowler confirmed his decision on Tuesday, September 2, with Cricket Australia officially validating the announcement.
Starc revealed that his primary focus now will be on One-Day Internationals (ODIs) and Test cricket, with a long-term goal of featuring in the 2027 ICC ODI World Cup. His decision comes as a surprise to many, especially with the 2026 T20 World Cup in India and Sri Lanka just months away.
In his statement, Starc said: “Test cricket has always been my highest priority. With the 2027 India Test tour, the Ashes, and the 50-over World Cup ahead, I believe stepping away from T20 internationals is the best way to stay fresh, fit, and in peak form for these major challenges.”
The highlight of Starc’s T20I career was being part of Australia’s maiden T20 World Cup triumph in 2021. Reflecting on the moment, he added: “Winning the 2021 T20 World Cup was incredible. I have cherished every game I played for Australia in this format.”
Career Stats:
Matches: 64 T20Is
Wickets: 79 (highest by an Australian fast bowler in T20Is)
Best figures: 3/11
Only Adam Zampa (130 wickets) has more T20I wickets for Australia.
Though bidding farewell to international T20s, fans will still see Starc in action in Tests, ODIs, and domestic leagues like the Indian Premier League (IPL).