The Australian pacer Mitchell Starc has announced his retirement from T20Is, bringing an end to a career that spanned 65 games in the format.

His announcement comes before the CA unveils the Australia squad for the New Zealand tour, which begins next month.

The left-arm quick has confirmed his decision, prioritising Test and ODI cricket. The 35-year-old has not played the format since the last T20 World Cup in the USA and West Indies, and has made the decision merely six months out from the next edition of the marquee event in India and Sri Lanka.

Starc finishes as Australia’s second-highest wicket taker in the format, behind only Adam Zampa. His T20I debut comes from a game against Pakistan in 2012 and since then he has picked 79 wickets at an economy of 7.74.

He featured in five of the six T20 World Cup played since, missing only the 2016 edition with an injury. He played key role as Australia completed their trophy set by lifting the title in Dubai in 2021.

“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.”

“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.”

The Australia Chair of selectors George Bailey said, “Mitch should be incredibly proud of his T20 career for 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.