Mitchell Starc Retires From T20 Cricket To Focus On Tests, ODIs

Post by : Mumtaaz Qadiri

Australian fast bowler Mitchell Starc has officially announced that he is retiring from T20 international cricket. The 35-year-old cricketer made this choice to give full attention to Test cricket and One-Day Internationals (ODIs). He explained that Australia’s schedule from the end of 2026 onwards will be very demanding, with many Test matches and also the 2027 ODI World Cup. To remain fit and ready for those challenges, Starc has decided to step away from T20s.

A Glorious T20 Journey

Mitchell Starc’s T20 career has been remarkable. He played a total of 65 matches for Australia in this format and took 79 wickets. This makes him the second-highest wicket-taker for Australia in T20 cricket history. His most memorable performance came against the West Indies in 2022, when he took 4 wickets in a single match. Starc was also a key part of the Australian team that won the T20 World Cup in the United Arab Emirates in 2021.

Special Memories Of 2021 World Cup

Starc spoke with emotion about his T20 journey. He said he enjoyed playing every T20 match for Australia but felt the 2021 World Cup was his favorite moment. He explained that the victory was important, but even more special was the bond with his teammates and the fun atmosphere within the team during that time. His final T20 appearance came in the 2024 T20 World Cup, which was held in the Caribbean.

Tests Remain The First Priority

When talking about his future, Starc made it clear that Test cricket has always been his first love and main priority. He explained that from mid-2026, Australia’s Test calendar will be extremely busy. This includes a home series against Bangladesh, an away series in South Africa, a four-Test series against New Zealand, and a five-Test series in India in January 2027.

Historic And Exciting Test Matches Ahead

The Test schedule will also feature some historic and exciting events. In 2027, Australia will play a special 150th anniversary Test against England in Melbourne, marking a milestone in cricket history. Later that same year, Australia will also play the Ashes series in England, one of the most famous and competitive rivalries in world cricket. For Starc, being fit and prepared for these matches is essential, and retiring from T20s will help him manage his workload.

Preparing For ODI World Cup 2027

In addition to the Test series, Starc also has his eyes on the ODI World Cup in 2027. The tournament will be held across South Africa, Zimbabwe, and Namibia during October and November. Australia will enter the competition as the defending champions, making it even more important for the team to perform strongly. Starc explained that focusing on Tests and ODIs will allow him to stay fresh and at his best for this global event.

Giving Young Bowlers An Opportunity

Starc also mentioned that by retiring from T20 cricket, he is opening the door for a new generation of bowlers. This will give young fast bowlers a chance to prepare and gain experience before the next T20 World Cup. He said it was important for the future of Australian cricket that younger players get the time and space to grow, and his decision will help make that possible.

Praise From Selection Committee Chairman

After the announcement, George Bailey, the chairman of Australia’s selection committee, praised Mitchell Starc for his contributions to T20 cricket. Bailey said that Starc should be proud of his achievements in the shortest format of the game. He highlighted that Starc was an important part of the 2021 T20 World Cup winning squad. According to Bailey, Starc’s ability to take wickets at crucial moments changed the course of many matches. He assured that Starc’s T20 career will be honored at the right time.

Australia Names Squad For New Zealand Series

Along with Starc’s retirement announcement, Australia also revealed the squad for the upcoming three-match T20 series against New Zealand in October. This squad does not include Starc, but it has several notable updates. Cameron Green will not be part of the series as he will be playing for Western Australia in the first round of the Sheffield Shield. His return to bowling will also be assessed during that time.

Personal Reasons Affecting Squad Selections

Nathan Ellis will also miss the series as he is expecting the birth of his first child with his wife, Connie. Other players, however, are making a comeback. Matt Short, who missed the series against the West Indies and South Africa due to injury, has returned to the squad. Mitchell Owen, who suffered a concussion in Darwin last month, is also back. These returns add strength and balance to the team.

Marcus Stoinis Returns To The Team

All-rounder Marcus Stoinis has also been named in the squad. His inclusion was confirmed after discussions with selectors about his availability. Stoinis brings experience and versatility to the team, which will be valuable against New Zealand. The squad reflects Australia’s effort to maintain balance while also giving opportunities to emerging players in the absence of senior stars like Starc.

Starc’s Legacy In Australian Cricket

Mitchell Starc’s retirement from T20 internationals marks the end of an important chapter in Australian cricket. His fast bowling, ability to swing the ball, and knack for taking key wickets made him one of the most feared bowlers in T20 cricket. His contributions to Australia’s 2021 World Cup victory will be remembered for years. While he will no longer play in the shortest format, his focus on Tests and ODIs shows his dedication to serving Australian cricket at the highest level.

For fans, Starc’s decision may feel bittersweet. While they will miss his presence in T20 cricket, they can also look forward to seeing him perform in Test matches and the 2027 ODI World Cup. With so many big events lined up, including tours of India and the Ashes in England, Starc will continue to play a central role in Australia’s cricket journey. His retirement is not an end, but rather a shift in focus toward formats he values the most.

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