Mitchell Starc, one of Australia’s greatest white-ball bowlers, has announced his retirement from T20 internationals, just months ahead of the 2026 T20 World Cup.
The veteran left-arm pacer, who turns 36 in January, made the call to prolong his Test and ODI career, with a focus on the upcoming India tour, the Ashes, and Australia’s 2027 ODI World Cup campaign in South Africa.
“Test cricket has always been my top priority,” Starc said in a statement. “I’ve cherished every T20I I’ve played for Australia, especially the 2021 World Cup – not only because we won, but because of the incredible team and the enjoyment we shared,” he added.
Looking ahead, Starc explained that stepping away from T20Is will help him stay fresh and fit for major red- and white-ball campaigns, while also giving Australia’s bowling group time to settle ahead of the next World Cup.
Mitchell Starc departs as Australia’s most successful fast bowler in T20Is, with 79 wickets to his name – second overall only to Adam Zampa’s 130. Starc’s biggest impact came during the 2021 T20 World Cup triumph, where his new-ball strikes and death-overs mastery were pivotal in delivering Australia’s first men’s title in the format.
