“Didn't Want To Hold…”: Mitchell Starc Explains His Surprise T20I Retirement

Mitchell Starc has spoken about his decision to retire from T20 International cricket—a call that surprised many given Australia’s upcoming World Cup and his status as one of the team’s most experienced fast bowlers. At 35, Starc said this move is about giving younger players a chance and making sure he can focus fully on Test cricket, especially with big series like the Ashes and the 2027 ODI World Cup coming up.

Starc’s Honest Reason

Starc revealed that the decision was not taken overnight. He spent some time weighing which format to step away from, finally deciding that T20Is had to go. He explained, "If I wasn't going to be in the frame for 2027, then I didn't want to hold up the spot. I still feel like I have plenty to offer the ODI team with that goal of getting my body to 2027." Starc is keen to stretch his Test career as long as possible and be in top shape for the one-day World Cup in South Africa.

Tests Still The Priority

Test cricket, Starc said, has always been his main focus. By putting T20Is aside, he believes he can manage his workload and play more Test matches for Australia. "For lack of a better term, I want to milk my body as much as I can for as much Test cricket as possible," Starc shared in his interview. With Australia preparing for a home Ashes series later this year and a packed red-ball calendar ahead, the move helps him save energy and avoid injuries.

Younger Bowlers In The Frame

Starc is leaving the T20 team at a time when several new bowlers have stepped up. He praised the group, saying, "Nathan Ellis is flying, Ben Dwarshuis has played a great role, Spencer Johnson has done some good stuff, Sean Abbott as well." He believes the T20 side is in a good place and his exit opens more opportunities for these bowlers to shine before next year’s World Cup.

IPL And Playing In India

Starc also hinted that he could return to the IPL next season, keeping his options open if he feels fit and available. So while T20Is for Australia are off the table, fans in India might still see him in action in domestic T20 leagues.

A Key World Cup Bowler

Starc retires as Australia's second-highest wicket-taker in T20Is with 79 wickets in 65 matches. He was part of the squad that won the tournament in 2021 and played a key role with his pace and deadly yorkers. Now, his eyes are set on more Test matches and possibly finishing as one of the greatest ODI World Cup bowlers of all time.