Mitchell Starc retires from T20Is, to focus on Test, ODI

Australia’s fearsome fast bowler Mitchell Starc has announced his retirement from T20Is in a strategic move to keep him battle-ready for upcoming major events like the Ashes, IPL, Test series in India, and the ODI World Cup in two years’ time.

- PRESS TRUST OF INDIA

Known for his explosive pace, prodigious swing, deadly yorkers and mean bouncers, Starc bows out of the T20 International format with 79 wickets in 65 matches, which makes him the second most successful Australian bowler in the format after Adam Zampa (130 wickets from 103 games).

“[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,” Starc said.

“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.”

“It (his retirement) also gives the bowling group time to prepare for the T20 World Cup in the matches leading into that tournament,” he said.

The T20 World Cup is scheduled to be held in India early next year.