Mitchell Starc, Australia’s leading fast bowler, has announced his retirement from T20 internationals, choosing to leave the shortest format to concentrate on Test cricket and prepare for the 2027 ODI World Cup.
The 35-year-old, regarded as one of the finest left-arm quicks of his generation, made his decision public following Australia’s recent T20I series, confirming that he will not be part of the next T20 World Cup which is set to take place in early 2026 in India and Sri Lanka.
A Move to Manage Workload
Starc explained that prioritising Test cricket has always been his main focus, and this decision will help him remain at his physical and mental peak. “Test cricket has always been my highest priority,” Starc said.
Australia’s selectors backed his call, acknowledging Starc’s immense value to the red-ball team and long-format ambitions. The pacer is expected to play a crucial role in the upcoming Test tours, including an away Ashes series in 2027 and challenging tours of India and South Africa.
An Outstanding T20I Career
- Matches/Wickets: 65 T20Is, 79 wickets – the most by an Australian fast bowler and second overall for Australia.
- Best figures: 4/20 against West Indies in 2022.
- Major Achievement: Member of Australia’s 2021 T20 World Cup-winning squad.
- Last Appearance: Represented Australia in the 2024 T20 World Cup in the Caribbean.
His lethal swing, pace, and ability to deliver yorkers at crucial moments made him a feared bowler in the shortest format.
Implications for Australia
Starc’s exit creates a major void in Australia’s T20 bowling lineup. Selectors are likely to rotate among experienced quicks such as Josh Hazlewood and emerging talents like Nathan Ellis, Sean Abbott, and Xavier Bartlett in the lead-up to the 2026 T20 World Cup.
Even though Starc has retired from T20 internationals, he is still open to playing in domestic T20 leagues like the IPL, where he is still in high demand.
Eyes on Test Glory and 2027 ODI World Cup
Earlier this year, Starc reached a huge milestone by becoming the fourth Australian bowler to take 400 Test wickets in his 100th Test. He is now focused on staying at his best for Australia’s busy Test calendar and aiming to help the team defend its title at the 2027 ODI World Cup in South Africa, Zimbabwe, and Namibia.
Having already won two ODI World Cups (2015 and 2023), Starc will be aiming for a third crown, cementing his legacy as one of Australia’s greatest fast bowlers.
A Strategic Decision
Starc’s decision to quit T20Is is a smart move to reduce his workload and extend his career. He has left a strong mark in the shortest format and will now focus fully on the formats he cares about the most.
Conclusion
Mitchell Starc’s exit from T20Is marks the end of an era, but it also signals his commitment to preserving his best for Test cricket and the 2027 ODI World Cup, where he aims to add to his already legendary career.
Written by Kinjal Walantra
