Australia – Fast bowler Mitchell Starc has announced his retirement from T20 International cricket, stating that he will now concentrate on Test matches and One-Day Internationals to extend his playing career.

Starc, who represented Australia in 65 T20Is and claimed 79 wickets, is regarded as one of the most successful left-arm pacers in the format. He said that stepping away from T20Is would help him manage his workload and give priority to the longer formats, especially Test cricket, which he called his biggest passion.

His decision comes ahead of a busy international calendar that includes bilateral series and major tournaments. Australia will also look to restructure its bowling attack for the upcoming T20 World Cup in India and Sri Lanka.

Cricket Australia announced that Ben Dwarshuis, a left-arm pacer, will replace Starc in the upcoming T20 series in New Zealand. While Dwarshuis brings domestic experience, questions remain on whether he can replicate Starc’s impact with pace and swing.

Starc’s retirement continues the transition phase in Australian cricket, with several senior players stepping away from shorter formats. In recent months, stars such as David Warner, Steve Smith and Glenn Maxwell have also taken similar decisions to focus on selective formats.

With this move, Starc will aim to strengthen his Test and ODI legacy, where he remains a key figure for Australia’s future campaigns.