3 T20I superstars who bowed out ahead of T20 World Cup 2026

As the cricketing world turns its collective gaze towards the ICC Men’s T20 World Cup 2026 in India and Sri Lanka, the landscape for the shortest format looks remarkably different. The year 2025 definitively marked the “end of an era”, with several modern-day greats having chosen to hang up their boots in the T20 International format to make way for the next generation.

Although the loss of these stalwarts leaves a void in their respective national teams, their departures have paved the way for a new generation of fearless cricketers, ready to pursue global glory.

Iconic stars who retired before the 2026 T20 World Cup

1) Mitchell Starc: The end of an express era

Perhaps the biggest blow to the Australian bowling attack was Mitchell StarcThe decision to retire from T20Is in September 2025. The left-arm speedster, known for his crushing yorkers and early breakthroughs, has decided to prioritize Test cricket and the 2027 ODI World Cup.

Starc leaves behind the legacy of being one of the most feared white-ball bowlers in history. His absence at the 2026 World Cup means Australia will go into the tournament without their main ‘X-factor’ with the new ball for the first time in more than a decade.

2) Nicholas Pooran: A shock exit for the West Indian star

In one of the most surprising announcements of the year, Nicolas Pooran retired from international cricket in June 2025. At just 29 years old, the West Indies record holder for runs and T20I appearances has decided to focus on the global franchise circuit.

For the Caribbean side, losing a mid-major power of Pooran’s caliber just months before a major tournament poses a significant obstacle. He was the bridge between the “old guard” of Gayle and Pollard and the rising stars; now, the Windies need to find a new anchor for their explosive batting line-up.

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3) Heinrich Klaasen: the South African finalist bows out

The South African mid-level superstar Heinrich Klaasen also ended his international career in June 2025. Over the past few seasons, Klaasen had arguably become the most destructive off-spin hitter in the world.

His retirement marks a significant change for the Proteas, who relied heavily on his ability to accelerate in the death overs. As South Africa prepare for the 2026 event, the pressure now shifts to young talents like Tristan Stubbs to fill the ‘finisher’ void left by Klaasen.

Summary of T20I performances

Player	Matches	Runs/wickets	BBI/Best score
Mitchell Starc	65	79 wickets	4/20
Nicolas Pooran	106	2275 races	98
Heinrich Klaasen	58	1000 races	81

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