Mitchell Starc Retires from T20Is to Focus on Tests and 2027 ODI World Cup

Australian cricket has witnessed a major announcement as left-arm pacer Mitchell Starc, one of the most feared fast bowlers of his generation, has decided to retire from T20 International cricket. Starc, Australia’s second-highest wicket-taker in T20Is, revealed that he is stepping away from the shortest format to give his full attention to Test cricket and the 2027 ICC ODI World Cup.

This decision marks the end of an era in Australia’s T20 bowling attack, with Starc’s fiery pace and wicket-taking ability having played a pivotal role in many memorable victories—including the 2021 T20 World Cup win.

Starc’s T20I Career: A Legacy of Fire and Consistency

Mitchell Starc made his T20I debut in 2012, and over the next decade, he became a cornerstone of Australia’s bowling attack.

• Matches Played: 65
• Wickets Taken: 79
• Economy Rate: 7.74
• Bowling Average: 23.81

Only Adam Zampa, Australia’s premier leg-spinner, has more wickets in T20 internationals for the men’s side. Starc’s ability to swing the ball at high speeds made him one of the most dangerous bowlers in the powerplay and at the death.

His biggest achievement came in the 2021 ICC T20 World Cup, where Australia lifted the trophy for the very first time. Starc was a crucial part of that campaign, providing breakthroughs and controlling key moments in games.

Why Starc Chose to Retire from T20Is

At 35 years old, Starc has been clear about his priorities. His decision is driven by his commitment to longevity in Test cricket and his ambition to represent Australia at the 2027 ODI World Cup.

In his own words:

“Test cricket is and has always been my highest priority. 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.”

Starc also mentioned the importance of managing his workload with major campaigns ahead:

• Away Indian Test tour
• The Ashes in England
• 2027 ODI World Cup

By stepping aside now, Starc is allowing the next generation of fast bowlers to take over in T20Is while ensuring he stays fresh, fit, and effective for the longer formats.

Tributes from Cricket Australia

National chief selector George Bailey paid tribute to Starc’s T20 career, highlighting both his impact and his professionalism.

“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.”

Bailey also emphasized that Starc will continue to play a vital role in Tests and ODIs, where his pace, swing, and match-winning ability remain unmatched.

Australia’s Squad for New Zealand T20 Series

Starc’s retirement coincided with the announcement of Australia’s T20 squad for the New Zealand series in October 2025. The squad will also be without Pat Cummins (back injury) and Nathan Ellis (paternity leave).

Australia’s T20 Squad:

• Mitchell Marsh (c)
• Travis Head
• Matthew Short
• Josh Inglis
• Mitchell Owen
• Marcus Stoinis
• Glenn Maxwell
• Tim David
• Sean Abbott
• Ben Dwarshuis
• Xavier Bartlett
• Adam Zampa
• Josh Hazlewood
• Matt Kuhnemann

This squad signals a transition phase for Australia’s T20 side, with opportunities for younger players to establish themselves ahead of the 2026 T20 World Cup.

The Impact of Starc’s Retirement

1. End of a T20 Era

Starc’s retirement closes a chapter where he was one of the most reliable fast bowlers in the world. His ability to bowl deadly yorkers, especially in crunch situations, made him a game-changer.

2. Focus on Test Cricket

Starc’s decision to prioritize Test cricket reflects his old-school passion for the format. With tours of India and England coming up, his presence will be invaluable for Australia’s hopes of maintaining dominance in red-ball cricket.

3. Road to ODI World Cup 2027

By managing his workload, Starc is preparing himself for one last big campaign—the 2027 ODI World Cup, where he aims to replicate his legendary performances from 2015 (Player of the Tournament) and 2019.

Starc’s Career Highlights Across Formats

While his T20I retirement is news, Starc’s overall career deserves recognition:

• Tests: Over 350 wickets with his lethal pace and reverse swing.
• ODIs: World Cup heroics in 2015 and 2019, one of the most successful bowlers in tournament history.
• T20Is: 79 wickets, 2021 World Cup winner.

Starc’s versatility and ability to deliver in high-pressure moments make him one of the greatest Australian bowlers of the modern era.

Looking Ahead: Australia’s Bowling Future

With Starc stepping away from T20Is, the spotlight shifts to younger fast bowlers like Xavier Bartlett and Ben Dwarshuis, alongside experienced hands like Josh Hazlewood.

The bowling attack for the 2026 T20 World Cup will likely evolve with a mix of youth and experience, while Starc focuses on Tests and ODIs.

Conclusion: Starc’s Decision Marks a Smart Transition

Mitchell Starc’s retirement from T20Is is both emotional and strategic. Emotional, because cricket fans will miss watching his thunderbolts in the shortest format; strategic, because it ensures he remains at his peak for Tests and ODIs.

As he gears up for the Ashes, Indian tours, and the 2027 World Cup, Starc has shown once again that he puts team success above personal milestones.

His T20 legacy will always be remembered, especially the 2021 World Cup triumph, where he was a driving force behind Australia’s historic win.