Australian fast bowler Mitchell Starc has announced his retirement from T20 Internationals to concentrate on Test and ODI cricket, Cricket Australia confirmed on Tuesday.
Starc, who played 65 T20Is and claimed 79 wickets, said Test cricket has always been his main focus.
“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 the incredible group and the fun along the way,” he said in a statement.
Starc added that he wanted to remain fresh for the major upcoming events.
“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 also gives the bowling group time to prepare for the T20 World Cup in the matches leading into that tournament,” he said.
Meanwhile, Cricket Australia has announced the squad for the upcoming T20 series against New Zealand in Starc’s absence. Pat Cummins will not feature in the series as part of his management plan.
According to Cricket Australia, Cummins is dealing with lower back soreness and is under assessment. He will also not be considered for the limited-overs series against India.
Mitchell Marsh will lead the team in the three-match T20 series against New Zealand starting for October 1.