Sydney, September 2, 2025: Australian fast bowler Mitchell Starc has announced his retirement from T20 International cricket, choosing to focus on prolonging his career in Test and ODI formats as he eyes major upcoming campaigns, including an away tour of India, the Ashes, and the 2027 ODI World Cup.
Starc, who played 65 T20Is and claimed 79 wickets – the second-most for Australia behind Adam Zampa – was a pivotal figure in the national team’s 2021 T20 World Cup triumph.
“Test cricket is and has always been my highest priority,” Starc said. “I have loved every minute of every T20 game I have played, particularly the 2021 World Cup, not just because we won but because of the incredible group and the fun along the way. Looking ahead, I feel this is the best way forward to remain fresh, fit, and at my best.”
He added that stepping aside now would also give Australia’s bowling group time to prepare for next year’s T20 World Cup.
Chair of selectors George Bailey praised Starc’s “wicket-taking ability and knack for blowing games open,” while Cricket Australia CEO Todd Greenberg lauded his sacrifices and team-first approach.
“Mitch has prioritised playing for his country and made significant sacrifices. Allowing the next crop of fast bowlers a clear path to the T20 World Cup is another example of putting the team first,” Greenberg said.
In Starc’s absence, selectors named a 15-member squad for the upcoming series against New Zealand. The squad features left-armer Ben Dwarshuis, who impressed against South Africa, alongside Josh Hazlewood and Sean Abbott.
- Nathan Ellis will miss the tour for the birth of his first child.
- Mitch Owen returns from concussion, while Matt Short is back from a side strain.
- Marcus Stoinis also rejoins the squad.
Captain Pat Cummins will sit out the series as part of a workload management plan. Cricket Australia revealed he is dealing with lumbar bone stress, ruling him out of the upcoming limited-overs series against India. His return to bowling will be assessed with an eye on the 2025–26 Ashes.
