SYDNEY: Australian pace great Mitchell Starc has announced his retirement from T20 internationals, opting to concentrate on Test and ODI cricket as he looks ahead to major campaigns including the Ashes and the 2027 ODI World Cup.
The 34-year-old, who played 65 T20Is and claimed 79 wickets — second only to Adam Zampa for Australia — leaves behind a legacy as one of the team’s most reliable strike bowlers in the format. Starc was a key member of Australia’s 2021 T20 World Cup-winning squad.
Starc Explains His Decision
“Test cricket is and has always been my highest priority,” Starc said. “I have loved every minute of every T20 game I have played for Australia, especially the 2021 World Cup. But looking ahead at tours to India, the Ashes, and the ODI World Cup in 2027, I feel this is the best way forward to stay fresh, fit and at my best.”
He added that stepping aside also allows Australia’s next generation of bowlers more time to prepare for next year’s T20 World Cup.
Tributes From Cricket Australia
Chair of Selectors George Bailey praised Starc’s “game-changing ability” and his role in securing Australia’s maiden T20 World Cup title. “Mitch should be incredibly proud of his T20 career. He had a great skill for blowing games open with his wicket-taking ability,” Bailey said.
Cricket Australia CEO Todd Greenberg said Starc’s choice reflected his team-first mindset. “He has prioritised playing for his country and made significant sacrifices. By stepping aside now, he clears the way for younger bowlers to prepare for the T20 World Cup.”
New Zealand Series Squad Announced
In Starc’s absence, selectors named a 14-man squad for the upcoming T20I series against New Zealand. The side sees the inclusion of left-armer Ben Dwarshuis after strong performances against South Africa, with Mitchell Owen and Matt Short returning from injury. All-rounder Marcus Stoinis is also back.
Pat Cummins will miss the series as part of his workload management plan. Medical checks revealed lumbar bone stress, ruling him out of the upcoming limited-overs matches against India as he focuses on rehabilitation ahead of the Ashes.
Australia T20I Squad vs New Zealand
- 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
