Australia’s veteran quick bowler Mitchell Starc has formally announced his T20 International cricket retirement, ending a great chapter in his career. The news broke on Tuesday morning (AEST), simultaneously with the announcement of Australia’s team for their October T20I series against New Zealand, a vital preparation for the ICC Men’s T20 World Cup 2026.
Starc’s T20I Career
Mitchell Starc made his T20 International debut in 2012 and quickly established himself as one of Australia’s most lethal white-ball bowlers. Known for his blistering pace, deadly yorkers, and ability to strike at crucial moments, Starc went on to represent Australia in 65 T20I matches. Over his decade-long career in the format, he picked up 79 wickets at an average of 23.81 and an economy rate of 7.74.
With those statistics, he now leaves the game, as Australia’s second-highest men’s T20I wicket-taker behind only leg spinner Adam Zampa. His ability to dismantle top batting orders in powerplays and at the death made him a vital part of the team’s machinery for a long time.
One of the strongest highlights of Starc’s T20I career occurred in 2021 when he was crucial to Australia’s first ICE Men’s T20 World Cup win in the UAE. His presence in the bowling attack provided Australia with an edge, enabling the team to finallly claim the coveted title.
Reason Behind Retirement
Starc, who is 35, said taking time off from T20Is would enable him to concentrate on the longer formats, where he still has lots to offer.
Test cricket is and always has been my number one priority,” Starc indicated in his retirement announcement. “I have enjoyed every moment of every T20 match that I’ve played for Australia, especially the 2021 World Cup — not only because we did win but because of the amazing team and the enjoyment along the journey.
Starc also stated that with a focus on coming challenges like an Indian away Test tour, the Ashes, and the 2027 World Cup ODI, it was necessary for him to remain fresh and in top physical condition.
“This announcement allows our bowling unit to prepare for the next T20 World Cup, but I remain focused on Tests and ODIs as long as I can,” he outlined.
Tributes from Selectors
National chief selector George Bailey lauded Starc’s work in the shortest format, citing his talent for turning a match with his death-overs brilliance.
“Mitch should be incredibly proud of his T20 career for Australia,” Bailey said. “He was an integral member of the 2021 World Cup winning side and, as across all his cricket, had a great skill for blowing games open with his wicket-taking ability. While we’ll celebrate his T20 career at the right time, it’s pleasing that he remains focused on Tests and ODIs.”
Australia’s Squad for New Zealand Series
As a part of Starc’s retirement, Australia also announced their team for the three-match T20I series against New Zealand in October. Mitchell Marsh will captain the side, with many familiar names and a few adjustments based on injuries and personal reasons.
Australia will also be missing Pat Cummins, recovering from stress in the lumbar bones of his back, which keeps him out not just this series but also the home white-ball series against India this year. Nathan Ellis is also missing as he stays back home on paternity leave.
Despite these absences, the team has a solid mix of experience and new blood. The major players like Glenn Maxwell, Marcus Stoinis, Adam Zampa, Josh Hazlewood and Travis Head are in prominent positions, as well as some promising names like Mitchell Owen, Ben Dwarshuis, and Xavier Bartlett.
Australia’s T20I Squad for New Zealand Series
Mitchell Marsh (c), Travis Head, Matthew Short, Josh Inglis, Mitchell Owen, Marcus Stoinis, Glenn Maxwell, Tim David, Sean Abbott, Ben Dwarshuis, Xavier Bartlett, Adam Zampa, Josh Hazlewood, Matt Kuhnemann
Looking Ahead
The retirement of Mitchell Starc to T20Is marks the conclusion of an era for Australia in the shortest of formats. His explosive spells, pressure magnificently absorbed, and his role in the 2021 T20 World Cup title will be memories branded with excellence throughout his career.
While his absence will be felt in future T20 campaigns, Starc’s decision shows his focus on life as a Test and ODI player, where his experience and skill are still gold. His T20 contribution to Australia will be as a match winner, a World Cup star, and one of the best fast bowlers to have played the game.
