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Australia bowled England out for 283 on the first day of the fifth Test, thanks in large part to the success of their left-arm bowler. There are few more thrilling images in cricket than Mitchell Starc at his best.
The Australian left-arm fast bowler can be destructive when healthy, but he is prone to ailments and has a history of inconsistency. Ben Stokes of England can attest to Starc's destructive potential when he's in his stride.
Mitchell Starc displayed his prowess with a spectacular ball that got rid of Stokes in the fifth Test between Australia and England. After facing 15 balls at the crease, Stokes was finally dismissed by a jaffa from Starc.
The left-hander's big delivery enticed English captain Ben Stokes to fire, but the late movement confused him. A brilliant delivery resulted in the ball crashing into the stumps, ending Stokes' innings, and his blank expression spoke all.
It was the kind of thing you'd expect from him. Mitchell Starc’s records were ordinary 8-1-44-0 prior to it. However, after a drink of water, something clicked inside of him, and wickets started falling quickly. England, who were 184/3 at one point, were bowled out for 283 on a pitch at The Oval that helped the bowlers due to cloudy weather.
Australia's batting lineup for the day ended with them at 61-1, 222 runs behind. Five chances, including one for Harry Brook when he was on 5, went begging for Australia, saving a worse situation for England. Starc, however, was the driving force behind Australia's offensive revival.
His final stats were 14.4-1-82-4 after he had also bowled out Stokes, Brook, Chris Woakes (36), and Stuart Broad. The 19 wickets he took in just six innings for a strike rate of 34.15 were a clear indication of his impact on the series, despite the runs he allowed.
It's a show in and of itself to see Starc at the height of his powers. He's a fascinating bowler to watch thanks to his pace, swing, and occasionally scary bounce. Mitchell Starc’s erratic nature provides an unpredictable aspect to Australia's bowling attack, which already features the brilliance of Pat Cummins and Josh Hazlewood.
Mitchell Starc reached a major career milestone in the fifth Test, his 50th overall, when he took his 200th Test wicket. Starc has achieved an outstanding total of 325 wickets in 81 Tests despite suffering from several injuries throughout his career, solidifying his place among the greatest bowlers in Australian cricket history.
Only Shane Warne (708 wickets), Glenn McGrath (563), Nathan Lyon (450*), and Dennis Lillee (355) of Australia have more wickets than Starc.
Harry Brook's dogged batting stood out alongside Starc's brilliant performance. Although England's total may not have been sufficient in the grand scheme of things, Brook's ability to play with caution and determination helped them post a respectable score.
Mitchell Starc, with his explosive bursts and knack for swinging the game in Australia's favour, is a force to be reckoned with as the Ashes series continues to unfurl in unpredictable fashion. The unexpected nature of Mitchell Starc only adds to the excitement of this series, making predictions impossible.
FAQs
What changed Mitchell Starc's performance in the fifth Test?
After a drinks break, Mitchell Starc’s bowling improved substantially. Despite England being 184/3, he caused their batting order to collapse, letting Australia bowl them out for 283.
What part did Mitchell Starc play in Australia's fifth Test revival?
Mitchell Starc led Australia's bowling revival, including Ben Stokes' wicket. He scored 14.4-1-82-4 to restrict England's total.
How does Mitchell Starc's fifth Test milestone impact his cricket legacy?
Despite many ailments, Mitchell Starc took his 200th Test wicket in his 50th Test in the fifth Test. He is presently one of Australia's best bowlers with 325 wickets in 81 Tests.
