Australian cricket has bid farewell to one of its most fiery left-arm pacers in the shortest format, as Mitchell Starc officially announced his retirement from T20 internationals. The 35-year-old revealed that his decision comes with a desire to focus on the longer formats — Test cricket and ODIs — where he continues to be a match-winner for the national side.
Starc, who ends his T20I career with 79 wickets in 65 matches, is Australia’s second-highest wicket-taker in T20 internationals. His best figures — 4/20 against West Indies in 2022 — remain one of the standout spells by an Australian fast bowler in the format. He was also a crucial part of the Aussies’ historic 2021 T20 World Cup triumph, providing breakthroughs with the new ball and death-overs accuracy.
Starc Explains His Retirement Decision
Speaking to ESPNcricinfo, Starc made it clear that Test cricket remains his ultimate passion:
“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.”
Looking ahead, Starc highlighted his long-term ambitions:
“An away Indian Test tour, the Ashes, and the ODI World Cup in 2027 are massive campaigns. I feel stepping away from T20Is is the best way to stay fresh, fit and ready for those challenges. It also allows the bowling group to prepare for the upcoming T20 World Cup in the matches leading into that tournament.”
Australia Face Selection Challenges
With Pat Cummins sidelined due to a back stress fracture and Starc stepping away from T20Is, Australia’s pace department faces a crucial rebuilding phase ahead of the upcoming assignments. Ben Dwarshuis is the frontrunner to replace Starc, bringing left-arm variety, swing, and experience in death overs bowling.
Meanwhile, Marcus Stoinis makes his return to the T20I squad after missing the recent West Indies and South Africa series, adding depth to both batting and seam-bowling options.
Upcoming T20I Series Against New Zealand
Australia will begin their three-match T20I series against New Zealand in early October 2025, their first outing since Starc’s retirement announcement. The series will serve as a testing ground for the next generation of Australian pacers as they prepare for the 2026 T20 World Cup.
Mitchell Starc’s exit from T20 internationals marks the end of an era. From swinging the new ball to firing yorkers at the death, the left-arm quick has left an indelible mark on the format. While fans will miss his fiery spells in T20Is, his focus now turns to continuing his dominance in Test cricket and ODIs, where he remains one of the world’s most feared fast bowlers.