Brisbane, Sep 2 (PTI) - Renowned Australian fast bowler Mitchell Starc has made a strategic decision to retire from T20 Internationals. This move is intended to keep him primed and ready for top-tier cricket events like the Ashes, IPL, Test series in India, and the ODI World Cup scheduled in two years.
Starc, acclaimed for his blistering pace, extraordinary swing, lethal yorkers, and sharp bouncers, concludes his T20I career with 79 wickets in 65 matches. This achievement places him as Australia's second most successful bowler in this format, only trailing Adam Zampa, who boasts 130 wickets from 103 games.
"Every T20 game for Australia has been a joy, particularly the 2021 World Cup. That tournament was special, not only because of our victory but also due to the camaraderie and enjoyment throughout," Starc remarked.
Looking forward, Starc believes focusing on forthcoming cricketing challenges, such as the Test tour of India, the Ashes, and the ODI World Cup in 2027, is vital. "Retiring now from T20 cricket gives both the team and me the opportunity to prepare for these monumental events, while ensuring I remain fit and competitive," he elaborated.
With the T20 World Cup slated for early next year in India, Starc's decision is both timely and strategic. Opting for longevity in Tests and ODIs at the age of 35 is expected to enhance his performance in upcoming intense international fixtures, including notable showings in the IPL. Over the years, he has distinguished himself with incredible performances for teams like Royal Challengers Bengaluru, Kolkata Knight Riders, and Delhi Capitals.
His commitment to maintaining peak physical condition for significant cricketing engagements has now led to his T20I retirement. Among the contemporary cricket circuit, Starc remains one of the most sought-after fast bowlers in the IPL. His record-breaking sale at Rs 24.75 crore in IPL 2024 reflected his invaluable contribution, particularly highlighted during KKR's title victory with his match-winning exploits.
Even when Delhi Capitals invested Rs 11.75 crore for his talent in IPL 2025, Starc upheld his reputation for altering game dynamics in pressure situations. Additionally, he was notably among the few international players who chose not to leave India amid a brief IPL suspension due to the India-Pakistan border tension.
As Australia's squad for the New Zealand tour in October—preparatory to the T20 World Cup—was announced, Starc's retirement news broke, underscoring a pivotal chapter in his career. The New South Wales native has been instrumental in Australia's 2015 and 2023 World Cup triumphs, notably excelling in the latter, culminating in Australia's victory over hosts India in the final.
Starc's sights are now set on joining the elite club of Australian cricketers—Ricky Ponting, Adam Gilchrist, and Glenn McGrath—by potentially winning a third ODI World Cup. George Bailey, Australia's chief selector, lauded Starc, highlighting his significant impact on Australia's T20 successes, especially the 2021 World Cup.
"Mitch has every reason to be proud of his T20I legacy. His knack for turning games with crucial wickets was vital to our successes," commented Bailey. "We are yet to honor his T20 journey formally, but it’s reassuring that he remains committed to prolonging his Test and ODI commitments."
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