Mitchell Starc bids farewell to T20Is; eyes long Test and ODI journey ahead

Australian fast bowler Mitchell Starc has called time on his T20 International career, choosing to focus on Test and ODI cricket. The left-armer, who played 65 T20Is and picked up 79 wickets, finishes as Australia’s second-highest wicket-taker in the format behind Adam Zampa. Starc said Test cricket remains his greatest priority. “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 for the incredible group and the fun along the way,” he reflected. “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 stay fresh, fit and at my best for those campaigns.” He also added that his decision would give Australia’s bowling group enough time to prepare for the T20 World Cup next year. Chair of selectors George Bailey praised Starc for his impact. “Mitch should be incredibly proud of his T20 career. He was an integral part of the 2021 World Cup winning side and had a great skill for breaking games open with his wicket-taking ability.” Cricket Australia CEO Todd Greenberg supported Starc’s decision. “It’s important to Mitch at this stage of his career to make choices that allow him to extend his Test and ODI journeys. Allowing the next group of fast bowlers a clear path to the T20 World Cup is another example of him putting the team first.”Australia’s T20 squad for the New Zealand series:Mitchell Marsh (c), Sean Abbott, Xavier Bartlett, Tim David, Ben Dwarshuis, Josh Hazlewood, Travis Head, Josh Inglis, Matt Kuhnemann, Glenn Maxwell, Mitchell Owen, Matthew Short, Marcus Stoinis and Adam Zampa.Pat Cummins will sit out the series due to ongoing lower back pain. Medical scans revealed lumbar bone stress, ruling him out of the upcoming white-ball matches against India. His return will be carefully managed as part of his Ashes preparation.