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Days after announcing shock retirement from T20Is on September 2, veteran Aussie pacer Mitchell Starc recently opened up on the reason behind his move. Only a couple of days after calling quits from T20I cricket, the legend reiterated on playing ODIs and Test cricket. Notably, the 35-year-old hasn’t played T20Is since the 2024 World Cup, which took place in the USA and West Indies.
In a statement released by Cricket Australia, the veteran pacer had stated, “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,” while accepting that he wants to focus on the remaining two formats of the game.
I want to milk my body as much as I can…: Mitchell Starc on focusing on Test and ODIs
The 35-year-old in conversation with cricket.com.au said, "I umm-ed and ahh-ed about which was the right (format) to put to the side. If I wasn't going to be in the frame for 2027, then I didn't want to hold up the spot. I still feel like I've got plenty to offer that ODI team.” "I'd thought about it for a while. I feel like it was probably a good time. I'm 35 now. Tests have always been my priority, and they will remain my priority," he added.
“For lack of a better term, I want to milk my body as much as I can for as much Test cricket as possible. That was never going to be off the table” he concluded, as he shifts his focus on the remaining two formats.
Reckoned as one of the finest all-format pacers in the Aussie colours, the Sydney-born also spoke about the current T20I team. “The T20 team seems pretty settled with the guys that have come in; they’ve done some great stuff. Nathan Ellis is flying, Ben Dwarshuis has played a great role, Spencer Johnson has done some good stuff when he’s played, Sean Abbott as well,” Starc said. He further opined that the team is in “great spot and don’t need to interrupt.”
