Mitchell Starc to Focus on Test Cricket, Steps Away from T20Is
Australian pacer Mitchell Starc has announced he will step away from T20 internationals to focus on Australia’s packed Test schedule and the 2027 ODI World Cup.
The 35-year-old has been a mainstay for Australia in T20 cricket, playing 65 matches and starring in the 2021 T20 World Cup triumph. Starc’s last T20 appearance came at the 2024 World Cup in the Caribbean. With 79 wickets in the format, he ranks second on Australia’s all-time list, including a career-best 4 for 20 against the West Indies in 2022.
“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, especially the 2021 World Cup—not just because we won, but for the incredible team and the fun along the way.”
Australia’s upcoming Test calendar is demanding, with a home series against Bangladesh, four Tests against New Zealand, a tour of South Africa, five Tests against India, a special 150th-anniversary match against England at the MCG, and an away Ashes series in mid-2027. Following that, the team will defend their ODI World Cup title in South Africa, Zimbabwe, and Namibia later in 2027.
Starc indicated he is keen to play in the away India series and the Ashes. “I feel this is the best way to stay fresh, fit, and at my best for those campaigns,” he said. “It also gives the bowling group time to prepare for the T20 World Cup with the matches leading up to that tournament.”
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