Legendary Australian fast bowler Mitchell Starc announced his retirement from T20 internationals on Tuesday, September 2. The left-arm pacer played 65 T20Is for Australia between 2012 and 2024, taking 79 wickets in the format.
Starc last featured in a T20I against India on June 24, 2024, at Gros Islet in St. Lucia. He conceded 45 runs in four overs during that game.
The 35-year-old retires as Australia’s leading wicket-taker among pace bowlers in T20Is. Only spinner Adam Zampa has taken more wickets for Australia in the shortest format.
Why Starc Stepped Away
According to Cricket Australia, Starc decided to step away from international T20s to prolong his Test career and prepare for the 2027 ODI World Cup, which will be held in South Africa, Namibia, and Zimbabwe.
“Starc today announced his retirement from international T20s. The 35-year-old, who has not played a T20I since last year’s World Cup in the Caribbean, will remain available for Tests, ODIs and domestic T20 leagues, including the Indian Premier League," Cricket Australia said in its release.
Starc’s Statement
Starc confirmed that Test cricket remains his top priority. “Test cricket is and has always been my highest priority," he said.
He also cherished his T20 journey. “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, Starc said, “Looking forward 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.”
Tributes from Cricket Australia
Australia’s chief selector George Bailey praised Starc’s contribution to T20 cricket. “Mitch should be incredibly proud of his T20 career for Australia,” Bailey said.
He added, “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 focused on continuing to play Test and ODI cricket for as long as possible.”