Australian fast bowler Mitchell Starc has stepped away from T20 internationals, closing a chapter that began in 2012. The left-armer ends with 79 wickets from 65 matches, ranking behind Adam Zampa on Australia’s all-time list.
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Starc said Test cricket had always been his greatest ambition. With tours to India, the Ashes, and a future World Cup ahead, he explained that focusing on longer formats would help him extend his career. He also remarked that the timing allows emerging fast bowlers to gain experience before the 2026 T20 World Cup.
His impact in T20s was most visible during Australia’s 2021 World Cup win, where his pace and accuracy were key to their triumph.
Selector George Bailey called him a match-winner capable of changing games within a few overs. Cricket Australia CEO Todd Greenberg said his retirement reflected the sacrifices he had consistently made for the team.
Starc’s departure paved the way for a refreshed squad against New Zealand. The squad features Mitchell Marsh as captain, with players like Josh Inglis, Glenn Maxwell, and Adam Zampa forming the core. Nathan Ellis was unavailable due to personal reasons, while Pat Cummins was rested as part of workload management.
