Mitchell Starc, the formidable Australian fast bowler, is on the verge of a historic milestone. At just 35 years old, he is set to become only the second Australian speedster after Glenn McGrath to play in 100 Test matches.
When he takes the field against the West Indies in Kingston on Sunday, it will mark a significant achievement in his illustrious career. Starc’s journey to this milestone has been marked by resilience, dedication, and exceptional performances that have defined his legacy in cricket.
Throughout his career, Mitchell Starc has pushed himself to the limits, often sacrificing IPL riches to manage his workload and avoid injury. Despite battling back, knee, ankle, calf, foot, and shin injuries early on, he refused to leave his team’s side.
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His perseverance has paid off, and with 395 wickets so far, he is just five shy of reaching the 400-wicket mark in Test cricket, a feat achieved by only a handful of Australian bowlers.
Here are five of Mitchell Starc’s most iconic spells that highlight his prowess:
1. 6/28 vs New Zealand (2015) – In the 2015 World Cup, Starc’s exceptional spell kept Australia alive in a low-scoring match, showcasing his ability to perform under pressure.
2. 6/66 vs Pakistan (Adelaide, 2019) – During a pink-ball Test, Starc’s fiery pace and accuracy dismantled the Pakistani batting lineup, claiming a memorable five-wicket haul.
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3. 6/48 vs India (Perth, 2024) – In a dominant day/night Test, Starc’s stunning bowling effort helped Australia secure a commanding victory, cementing his reputation as a match-winner.
4. 5/46 vs West Indies (2019) – Early in the 2019 World Cup, Starc’s five-wicket spell was instrumental in defending 289 runs and setting the tone for Australia’s successful campaign.
5. 6/50 vs Sri Lanka (2016) – In the second Test against Sri Lanka, Starc took six wickets for just 50 runs in the second innings, though Australia narrowly lost the match.
As Mitchell Starc approaches his 100th Test, his contributions continue to inspire. His performances have not only defined his career but have also elevated Australian cricket to new heights, cementing his legacy as one of the greatest fast bowlers of his generation.