Australia left-arm pacer Mitchell Starc has retired from T20I cricket to prioritise his Test and ODI career.
Starc called time on his 13-year-long career in the T20I format. He took 79 wickets from 65 matches at an average of 23.81 and an economy of 7.74, finishing as Australia's second-highest wicket-taker in the format.
He had been part of five T20 World Cup campaigns for Australia, starting from 2012, with the pinnacle coming during the 2021 World Cup in the UAE, where Australia lifted their maiden title. His last outing in the format as well as the tournament, came last year when Australia suffered a 24-run loss against eventual champions India in the Super Eights stage.
Mitchell Starc has called time on his T20I career to prioritise Australia’s upcoming Test schedule and the 2027 ODI World Cup.#MitchellStarc #Cricket pic.twitter.com/F5f9zlsmjD
— Wisden (@WisdenCricket) September 2, 2025
Mitchell Starc shifts focus to Test cricket and 2027 ODI World Cup
Starc's decision to quit T20I cricket has stemmed from his desire to focus on Test cricket and the 2027 ODI World Cup.
Since his last T20I at the World Cup in June last year, Starc has played in only six of Australia's 19 ODIs. In contrast, Test cricket has seen him turn out consistently for his side; he has played in 11 out of 14 matches, the joint-most among his compatriots.
With Australia facing a gruelling Test schedule ahead from mid-2026 – including a home series against Bangladesh, a tour of South Africa, a four-match Test series against New Zealand, five Tests in India in January 2027, a one-off Test against England at the MCG, and then an away Ashes series – his focus is clear. The ODI World Cup will also be played in October and November 2027.
"Test cricket is and has always been my highest priority," Starc said in a statement.
"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 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," Starc said. "It also gives the bowling group time to prepare for the T20 World Cup in the matches leading into that tournament."
Starc’s retirement is the latest among Australians. Earlier, David Warner retired from all formats last year, while Marcus Stoinis, Steve Smith, and Glenn Maxwell called time on their ODI careers. Starc’s retirement comes just months ahead of the upcoming T20 World Cup, which is scheduled for February and March next year.
