Mitchell Starc Retires from T20I Cricket to Focus on Tests
Prolific Australian fast-bowler Mitchell Starc has announced his retirement from T20I cricket. The 35-year-old confirmed the decision on Tuesday, ending a stellar career in the shortest format while staying available for Tests, ODIs, and domestic T20 leagues including the Indian Premier League.
“Test cricket is and has always been my highest priority,” Starc said in a statement. “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.
“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,” he added.
A decorated T20I career
Starc made his T20I debut in 2012 and quickly established himself as one of the most dangerous bowlers in the format. He played in five of Australia’s six ICC T20 events after his debut, missing only the 2016 edition due to injury. His role proved crucial in Australia’s maiden T20 World Cup triumph in 2021, when they beat New Zealand in the final in Dubai.
He retires as the leading men’s T20I wicket-taker among Australian fast bowlers, with 79 wickets from 65 games. Only Adam Zampa, with 130 wickets, has more scalps for Australia in T20Is.
Transition period for Australian cricket
Starc’s retirement comes during a major transition for Australian cricket. David Warner ended his international career last year, while Steve Smith, Glenn Maxwell, and Marcus Stoinis retired from ODIs earlier this year.
Australia chief selector George Bailey praised Starc’s contributions.
“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,” said Bailey.
“We will acknowledge and celebrate his T20 career at the right time, but pleasingly he remains focused on continuing to play Test and ODI cricket for as long as possible,” he added.
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