Sydney — Australian left-arm fast bowler Mitchell Starc has announced that he will retire from Twenty20 international cricket with immediate effect, starting Tuesday. He stated that he will now focus more on Test and One-Day International (ODI) cricket.

"Test cricket has always been my top priority," said the 35-year-old Starc in a statement. He made this announcement ahead of the T20 World Cup scheduled in India and Sri Lanka in six months.

"Every minute I spent playing T20 for Australia was enjoyable, and the 2021 World Cup was even more special," he added. Starc has played 65 T20 internationals for Australia. He was a key member of the Australian team that won the T20 World Cup four years ago.

During his T20 international career, Starc has taken 79 wickets. Only Adam Zampa has taken more wickets than him for Australia in T20 internationals. Starc made this decision ahead of Australia’s busy upcoming cricket schedule, which includes the Ashes series at home this year and the ODI World Cup next year.

"Considering the India tour, the Ashes series, and the 2027 World Cup, it was necessary to stay fresh and fit," Starc said. "This will also give upcoming bowlers preparation time before the T20 World Cup." He had already been included in Australia’s squad for the T20 series against New Zealand.