Mitchell Starc, Australia’s most fastest bowlers, announced his T20 international retirement on Tuesday, September 2, 2025. The 35-year-old, who has been always a star performer of Australia’s bowling squad for more than a decade, will henceforth concentrate exclusively on Test cricket and ODIs with a view to competing in the 2027 World Cup in South Africa.
In an emotional statement, Mitchell Starc confirmed that Test cricket always remains his priority and marked that moving away from T20Is will keep him fresh and always fit for other big tournaments like the Ashes, Indian away tours, and the 2027 World Cup ODI.
“Test cricket remains and always has been my top priority,” declared Starc. “I have always enjoyed every moment of T20 cricket, particularly the 2021 World Cup triumph. But looking down the track at major tournaments, I believe this is the prime decision to extend my career.”
Read More: Cricket’s Big Goodbyes: Top 5 Stars Who Retired in 2025 | In Photos
T20I Career Highlights
Starc departs that T20 internationals with an outstanding record. Between his first appearance in 2012 and his retirement, he appeared in 65 games, taking 79 wickets at 7.74 runs per over. His best was 4/20 against the West Indies in 2022.
He was always an crucial part of Australia’s lone T20 World Cup victory in 2021 and walks away as the country’s second-highest wicket-taker in the format behind Adam Zampa.
Read More: Cheteshwar Pujara Retirement: How India’s Test Warrior Endured Across 5 Days of Cricket
Starc to Continue in Franchise Leagues
Even though Mitchell will not be now a part of T20Is, Starc is likely to remain always available for franchise cricket, including the Indian Premier League (IPL), where he has played for Kolkata Knight Riders and Delhi Capitals in previous seasons.
George Bailey Pays Tribute
Chairman of selectors George Bailey praised Starc’s work, stating: “Mitch has every right reason to celebrate his T20s retirements. He played a crucial role in the 2021 World Cup; he was well-known for his rare talent of opening up games through bowling prowess. Happily, he will still play Tests and ODIs.”
Read More: What is the Bronco Test? Inside BCCI’s Latest Endurance Benchmark for Indian Cricket
