As the cricket world turns its collective gaze toward the ICC Men’s T20 World Cup 2026 in India and Sri Lanka, the landscape of the shortest format looks remarkably different. The year 2025 served as a definitive “end of an era,” with several modern-day greats choosing to hang up their boots in the T20 International format to make way for the next generation.
While the loss of these stalwarts leaves a void in their respective national sides, their departures have cleared the stage for a new, fearless breed of cricketers ready to chase global glory.
Iconic stars who retired ahead of T20 World Cup 2026
1) Mitchell Starc: The end of an express era
Perhaps the most significant blow to Australia’s bowling attack was Mitchell Starc’s decision to retire from T20Is in September 2025. The left-arm speedster, known for his toe-crushing yorkers and early breakthroughs, decided to prioritize Test cricket and the 2027 ODI World Cup.
Starc leaves behind a legacy of being one of the most feared white-ball bowlers in history. His absence at the 2026 World Cup means Australia will head into the tournament without their primary “X-factor” with the new ball for the first time in over a decade.
2) Nicholas Pooran: A shock exit for the West Indies star
In one of the more surprising announcements of the year, Nicholas Pooran retired from all international cricket in June 2025. At just 29 years old, the West Indies’ record-holder for T20I runs and appearances decided to focus on the global franchise circuit.
For the Caribbean side, losing a middle-order powerhouse of Pooran’s caliber just months before a major tournament is a massive hurdle. He was the bridge between the “old guard” of Gayle and Pollard and the rising stars; now, the Windies must find a new anchor for their explosive batting lineup.
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3) Heinrich Klaasen: South Africa’s finisher bows out
South Africa’s middle-order superstar Heinrich Klaasen also called it quits on his international career in June 2025. Over the last few seasons, Klaasen had evolved into arguably the most destructive batter against spin in the world.
His retirement marks a significant shift for the Proteas, who relied heavily on his ability to accelerate in the death overs. As South Africa prepares for the 2026 event, the pressure now shifts to young talents like Tristan Stubbs to fill the “finisher” vacuum left by Klaasen.
T20I performance summary
| Player | Matches | Runs/Wickets | BBI/Best score |
|---|---|---|---|
| Mitchell Starc | 65 | 79 Wickets | 4/20 |
| Nicholas Pooran | 106 | 2275 Runs | 98 |
| Heinrich Klaasen | 58 | 1000 Runs | 81 |
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