It’s a big blow for the Australian cricket team just ahead of the 2026 T20 World Cup as one of their best fast bowlers has decided to retire form the shortest format.

Mitchell Starc announced his retirement from T20Is on Tuesday as Australia announced the squad for the three-match series against New Zealand in early October. The 2021 T20 World Cup-winner Starc said he “loved” playing the shortest format for Australia but wants to prioritise Test cricket ahead of a heavy schedule.

The 35-year-old Starc also added that he plans to play in the 2027 ODI World Cup, in which the Australians would be the defending champions.

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“Test cricket is and has always been my highest priority,” Starc said. “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.

“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.”

Australian selector praises Starc’s T20I career

Australian chief selector George Bailey praised Starc’s glittering T20I career and expressed relief at the bowler’s decision to continue playing in Tests and ODIs for Australia.

“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 focussed on continuing to play Test and ODI cricket for as long as possible.”

Starc took 79 T20I wickets in 65 matches.

Australia T20I squad for New Zealand series: Mitchell Marsh (capt), Sean Abbott, Xavier Bartlett, Tim David, Ben Dwarshuis, Josh Hazlewood, Travis Head, Josh Inglis, Matt Kuhnemann, Glenn Maxwell, Mitchell Owen, Matthew Short, Marcus Stoinis, Adam Zampa

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