Mitchell Starc Retirement from T20Is: Focus on Tests and 2027 ODI World Cup
The announcement of Mitchell Starc retirement from T20Is marks the end of a significant era for Australian cricket. The left-arm pacer confirmed his decision to step away from the shortest format in order to focus on Test matches and the 2027 ODI World Cup.
Starc Ends T20I Career
After debuting in 2012, Starc featured in 65 T20 internationals and picked up 79 wickets. Moreover, he played a crucial role in Australia’s triumph at the 2021 T20 World Cup in the UAE. His best T20I figures of 4 for 20 came against West Indies in 2022, highlighting his ability to swing the ball at high pace. Although he last appeared during the 2024 T20 World Cup, the bowler has now opted out ahead of the next edition in India and Sri Lanka.
Reason Behind the Decision
Explaining the Mitchell Starc retirement from T20Is, the 35-year-old confirmed that Test cricket remains his highest priority. In addition, the ODI World Cup in 2027 will demand peak fitness and preparation. Australia’s busy schedule from 2026 includes a home series against Bangladesh, tours to South Africa and New Zealand, and a five-Test series in India. Therefore, Starc decided that stepping away from T20Is was the best way to stay fresh.
Mitchell Starc has officially announced his retirement from T20Is. 🔚🔥
— wicketbuzz (@wicketbuzz) September 2, 2025
A legendary white-ball career comes to a close! 🇦🇺❤️
📸 Getty #MitchellStarc #T20Iretirement #AussieLegend #CricketAustralia #ThankYouStarc pic.twitter.com/0MkCQ4B1AP
Selectors React to Starc’s Exit
Chair of selectors George Bailey acknowledged that Starc’s absence will be difficult to replace. His ability to swing the new ball at 145kph and deliver yorkers at crucial moments made him invaluable. Nevertheless, Bailey suggested that bowlers such as Nathan Ellis, Ben Dwarshuis, Sean Abbott, and Xavier Bartlett could step up. Furthermore, he expressed excitement that Starc will continue contributing in Tests and ODIs for several more years.
Australia Names T20I Squad for New Zealand
Soon after the announcement of Mitchell Starc retirement from T20Is, Australia revealed their T20I squad for the three-match series against New Zealand. Mitchell Marsh will captain a side that includes Josh Hazlewood, Glenn Maxwell, Adam Zampa, Travis Head, Tim David, Marcus Stoinis, and Matt Short among others.
Legacy of Starc in T20Is
The impact of Mitchell Starc retirement from T20Is goes beyond statistics. His pace, swing, and death-over accuracy defined Australia’s bowling strategy for over a decade. While his T20I chapter has closed, his commitment to Test cricket and the 2027 ODI World Cup ensures that fans will continue witnessing his brilliance on the global stage.
