Australian fast-bowling ace Mitchell Starc has officially announced his retirement from T20 International cricket, choosing to dedicate his energy to prolonging his Test and ODI career. Starc, who has been a cornerstone of Australia’s pace attack for over a decade, bows out of the shortest format with an impressive record—79 wickets in 65 T20Is—placing him second on Australia’s all-time list behind leg-spinner Adam Zampa.

His ability to strike early and deliver under pressure made him one of the most feared T20 bowlers in world cricket. Reflecting on his decision, Mitchell Starc emphasised his passion for Test cricket.

“Test cricket is and has always been my highest priority,” he said. “I have loved every minute of every T20 game I’ve played, especially the 2021 World Cup win. That tournament was special, not just because of the victory but the camaraderie we shared as a group. Looking ahead to key campaigns like the upcoming India Test tour, the Ashes, and the 2027 ODI World Cup, stepping away from T20Is gives me the best chance to stay fresh and perform at my peak. It also allows Australia’s bowling group time to prepare for the next T20 World Cup.”

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Chair of selectors George Bailey praised Starc’s impact, calling him “an integral member of the 2021 World Cup-winning side” with “a rare skill for blowing games open.”

Cricket Australia CEO Todd Greenberg echoed that sentiment, commending Starc for putting team success over personal accolades. “Mitch has made sacrifices throughout his career to prioritize playing for Australia. His decision creates opportunities for the next generation of fast bowlers while ensuring he can continue leading our attack in Test and ODI cricket.”

Mitchell Starc has announced his retirement from T20Is in order to prioritise Australia’s heavy Test schedule from late next year and the 2027 ODI World Cup https://t.co/wykP9UmHrY pic.twitter.com/6tI0QFZfJO

— ESPNcricinfo (@ESPNcricinfo) September 2, 2025

With Starc’s retirement, Australia’s squad for the upcoming New Zealand series sees some changes. Left-arm quick Ben Dwarshuis, who impressed against South Africa, joins Josh Hazlewood and Sean Abbott in the pace department, while Nathan Ellis misses the tour to be with his wife for the birth of their first child.

Mitch Owen returns after a concussion, Matt Short is back from a side strain, and Marcus Stoinis also re-enters the squad. Meanwhile, captain Pat Cummins will miss the India limited-overs series after scans revealed lumbar bone stress following the West Indies Test tour. His recovery plan will focus on long-term fitness ahead of the Ashes.

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Starc’s T20I retirement marks the end of an era for Australia, but his focus on Tests and ODIs ensures he remains a crucial figure as Australia prepares for major tournaments in the coming years.

Australian T20 Squad: Mitchell Marsh (C), Sean Abbott, Xavier Bartlett, Tim David, Ben Dwarshuis, Josh Hazlewood, Travis Head, Josh Inglis, Matt Kuhnemann, Glenn Maxwell, Mitchell Owen, Matthew Short, Marcus Stoinis, Adam Zampa