Australian left-arm fast bowler Mitchell Starc announced his retirement from T20 internationals to focus on the Test schedule that is set to start late next year and also on the 2027 ODI World Cup.
Starc was part of World Cup-winning squad
Starc made his debut in 2012 and has played 65 matches to date. He was a key member of Australia’s 2021 T20 World Cup-winning squad in the UAE. He steps down with 79 wickets, the second-highest for Australia in T20Is.
Starc said in a statement, “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.”
Packed Test schedule
From mid-2026, Australia is set for a packed Test schedule including a home series against Bangladesh, a tour of South Africa, a four-match series against New Zealand, and five Tests in India in January 2027. The historic 150th anniversary Test against England will follow, before the away Ashes in mid-2027. In October–November 2027, the ODI World Cup will take place in South Africa, Zimbabwe, and Namibia, with Australia entering as defending champions.
Starc experimented with his technique
“Looking ahead to an away Indian Test tour, the Ashes and an ODI World Cup in 2027, I feel this is my best way forward to remain fresh, fit and at my best for those campaigns. It also gives the bowling group time to prepare for the T20 World Cup in the matches leading into that tournament.”
Before his retirement, Starc had been experimenting with his technique, combining new-ball swing with yorkers. His raw pace will be difficult to replace as the team prepares for next year’s World Cup in India and Sri Lanka.
“I’m not sure we’re going to find someone swinging the new ball at 145kph,” said chair of selectors George Bailey.
Starc announced his retirement as the squad for the three-match T20I series against New Zealand in early October was named.
Australia T20I squad vs New Zealand:
Mitchell Marsh (capt), 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.