Australian fast bowler Mitchell Starc has announced his retirement from T20 internationals to focus on Australia’s busy Test schedule starting late next year and the 2027 ODI World Cup. The 35-year-old has played 65 T20Is in his career and was part of the Australian team that lifted the 2021 T20 World Cup in the UAE. His last appearance in the format came during the 2024 T20 World Cup in the Caribbean.
Starc has taken 79 wickets in T20Is, the second highest for Australia, with his best figures of 4 for 20 against the West Indies in 2022, according to ESPN. “Test cricket is and has always been my highest priority,” Starc said, adding, “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.”
Busy schedule ahead for Australia
From mid-2026, Australia will have a packed Test calendar. It begins with a home series against Bangladesh, followed by a tour of South Africa and a four-match series against New Zealand. In January 2027, they will play five Tests in India, then host England in a special one-off 150th anniversary Test at the MCG, before heading to England for the Ashes in mid-2027.
The ODI World Cup will follow later that year in October and November, hosted by South Africa, Zimbabwe, and Namibia. Australia will enter the tournament as the defending champions.
Starc explains his decision
Mitchell Starc said he wanted to step away from T20Is so that he can stay fresh, fit, and at his best for important campaigns such as the India Test series, the Ashes, and the 2027 ODI World Cup. He added that this decision would also give Australia’s bowling group more time to prepare for the T20 World Cup.
Chair of selectors George Bailey praised Starc for being a key player in Australia’s 2021 T20 World Cup win. He said Starc’s ability to take crucial wickets often turned matches in Australia’s favour. Bailey added that Starc’s T20 career would be celebrated at the right time, but for now, it is encouraging that he is fully committed to continuing in Tests and ODIs.
Australia’s new T20I squad announcement
Starc’s retirement news came as Australia named their T20I squad for the upcoming three-match series against New Zealand in October. Cameron Green will not be part of the tour so that he can play the first round of the Sheffield Shield for Western Australia, where he could also return to bowling.