Did Mitchell Starc Just Retire from T20Is to Focus on Tests and ODIs?
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Synopsis
In a surprising move, Australian pacer Mitchell Starc retires from T20 internationals to concentrate on his Test career and the upcoming 2027 ODI World Cup. Read on to find out more about his impressive stats and future aspirations.
Key Takeaways
- Mitchell Starc retires from T20Is to focus on Tests and ODIs.
- He aims for the 2027 ODI World Cup.
- Starc holds the record for most T20I wickets among Australian fast bowlers.
- His career highlight includes winning the 2021 World Cup.
- Starc remains available for domestic leagues like the IPL.
Melbourne, Sep 2 (NationPress) Australia's left-arm pacer Mitchell Starc has officially announced his retirement from T20 internationals to enhance his Test career and aim for the 2027 ODI World Cup.
The 35-year-old cricketer, who hasn't participated in a T20I since the last year's World Cup held in the Caribbean, remains available for Test matches, ODIs, and domestic T20 leagues, including the Indian Premier League.
Starc, who has represented Australia in 65 T20Is, taking 79 wickets with an economy of 7.74 and an average of 23.81, exits as Australia's leading wicket-taker among fast bowlers in the T20 format. Only spinner Adam Zampa (130) has surpassed Starc's tally of 79 T20I wickets.
"Test cricket has always been my top priority. I cherish every moment spent playing T20 cricket for Australia, especially during the 2021 World Cup, not only for our victory but also for the fantastic team spirit and fun we had," Starc stated.
"With upcoming tours in India, the Ashes, and the ODI World Cup in 2027 on the horizon, I believe this decision is the best way to keep myself fresh, fit, and performing at my peak for these important campaigns.
This also allows the bowling team adequate time to prepare for the T20 World Cup in the lead-up to the tournament," he added.
His most memorable moment in T20s came during the 2021 World Cup when Australia clinched their first men's T20 championship.
Starc made his T20 international debut in 2012 and participated in five of Australia's six ICC events in this format, only missing one World Cup due to an injury that ruled him out of the 2016 campaign in India.
National chief selector George Bailey paid tribute to Starc's contributions in T20 cricket.
"Mitch should take immense pride in his T20 career with Australia. He played a crucial role in the 2021 World Cup-winning team and consistently showcased his ability to change the game with his wicket-taking skills.
We will celebrate his T20 achievements at the appropriate time, but it's great to see him focused on continuing his Test and ODI career for as long as possible," Bailey commented.
Starc's announcement coincides with Australia's announcement of their latest T20I squad for the three-match series against New Zealand set for early October.
Australia will also miss Pat Cummins for the upcoming series due to a back injury, while Nathan Ellis is absent on paternity leave.
Matt Short, who missed previous series against the West Indies and South Africa due to a side injury, is back. Mitchell Owen returns to the squad after missing the last T20 and subsequent ODI series against the Proteas due to concussion.
Marcus Stoinis is also poised to make his return to international cricket for the first time since late 2024 after missing Australia's clean sweep against West Indies and their series win against South Africa.
Australian T20 Squad for the New Zealand series:
Mitchell Marsh (c), Travis Head, Matthew Short, Josh Inglis, Mitchell Owen, Marcus Stoinis, Glenn Maxwell, Tim David, Sean Abbott, Ben Dwarshuis, Xavier Bartlett, Adam Zampa, Josh Hazlewood, Matt Kuhnemann
Point of View
Mitchell Starc's decision to retire from T20Is emphasizes his commitment to excellence in Test cricket and the ODI format. This strategic move reflects his dedication to maximizing his performance in the upcoming major tournaments, showcasing the depth of talent in Australian cricket.
NationPress
02/09/2025
Frequently Asked Questions
Why did Mitchell Starc retire from T20Is?
Mitchell Starc retired from T20 internationals to focus on extending his Test career and preparing for the 2027 ODI World Cup.
What are Mitchell Starc's T20I statistics?
In T20 internationals, Starc played 65 matches, taking 79 wickets with an economy rate of 7.74 and an average of 23.81.
How many T20 World Cups has Starc participated in?
Starc has participated in five of Australia's six ICC T20 World Cup events since making his debut in 2012.
Who is Australia's leading T20I wicket-taker?
Among Australian fast bowlers, Mitchell Starc is the leading T20I wicket-taker with 79 wickets, surpassed only by spinner Adam Zampa (130).
What is Starc's future in cricket?
Mitchell Starc aims to focus on Test matches and ODIs as he prepares for significant upcoming events, including the 2027 ODI World Cup.
