Mitchell Starc, the fastest and widely hailed as the best Australian fast bowler, has retired from T20 internationals to give his full energy to Test and One-Day International cricket.
The experienced pacer made the announcement on Tuesday, closing the curtain on a 65-match T20I career marked by Australia's success at the 2021 T20 World Cup. Starc's last appearance in the format was at the 2024 T20 World Cup, which was played in the USA and the West Indies.
Announcing his departure from the shortest form, Starc said: "Test cricket is and has always been my highest priority. 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."
The left-arm pacer clarified that his attention is presently squarely on Australia's future Test missions, such as a star-studded tour of India, the Ashes collection, and the 2027 ODI World Cup. Since another T20 World Cup is also planned for 2026, he feels his move is timed properly to enable selectors to introduce new players into the side.
"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."
Chairman of selectors George Bailey said on Starc's decision: "Mitch should be incredibly proud of his T20 career for Australia. He was an integral member of the 2021 World Cup-winning side and, as across all his cricket, had a great skill for blowing games open with his wicket-taking ability."
"We will acknowledge and celebrate his T20 career at the right time, but pleasingly, he remains focused on continuing to play Test and ODI cricket for as long as possible."
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