Australian pace star Mitchell Starc announces retirement from T20 format

He has not represented Australia in T20 since his last appearance in the T20 World Cup in West India last year.

According to the Cricket Australia website, the left-arm fast bowler will remain available for Tests, ODIs and domestic T20 leagues, including the Indian Premier League.

He is leaving the format as one of the most successful bowlers in Australian cricket history, scalping 79 wickets from 65 T20Is. He is just behind colleague Adam Zampa.

He is best remembered for his prolific performance in the 2021 edition of the T20 World Cup, where he played a crucial role in the national team's title victory.

"Test cricket is and has always been my highest priority," Starc said in a statement.

"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.

"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," the cricketer said.

Since David Warner's retirement, several top Australian cricketers, including  Steve Smith, Glenn Maxwell and Marcus Stoinis, have quit the 50-over format.

Praising Starc for his contribution to the game, selection chief George Bailey told Cricket Australia: "He was an integral member of the 2021 World Cup winning side and, as across all his cricket, had a great skill for blowing games open with his wicket-taking ability."