Australia’s star seamer Mitchell Starc is set to replace captain Pat Cummins in the third Test of the four-match series against India in Indore on March 1. Starc is likely to be named the sole specialist fast bowler alongside allrounder Cameron Green, who has declared himself fit for the third Test. Both players are recovering from finger injuries.
Starc’s middle finger on his bowling arm will remain in a splint for at least two more weeks, causing him discomfort while bowling. However, he feels confident that he can still perform well despite not being at his 100%. “It wouldn’t be the first Test match I’ve played in some sort of discomfort. If I only played when I was 100 per cent I probably only would’ve played in five or ten Tests,” he added.
Despite not being fully fit, the left-arm fast bowler has no concerns about being the leader of the pace attack in Pat Cummins’ absence. Cummins has gone back to Australia to be alongside his ailing mother. “Workload wise, body wise, there’s no concern at all … I’m completely comfortable with where my numbers are and where my body is at,” said Starc.
In addition to leading the pace attack, Starc will also focus on producing footmarks, which he believes he can do better than the Indian bowlers. “You’ve got to be prepared to bowl at any point, whether that be looking like shorter spells but also working with the guy at the other end. (Another focus) is the footmarks that I can produce as well … I certainly produce more than the Indian guys, being heavier at the crease,” he added.
Starc and his family went through a heart-wrenching period two years ago when he lost his father Paul to cancer. Seeing Cummins go through a similar situation with his family is hard for the Australian quick. “Having been through a similar situation recently, it’s a hard place to be trying to get your head around playing international cricket, and for him to captain at the same time,” Starc said. However, Cummins has the complete support of the team.
Steve Smith will be filling in as captain in Pat Cummins’ absence. Starc feels comfortable playing under Smith’s captaincy since he has played a lot of cricket with him as captain. “The couple of Tests he had to do in Adelaide (filling in for Cummins in 2021 and 2022) were really successful for the group, so hopefully, it’s another great week for our team,” he said.
In conclusion, although Starc is not at his 100%, he feels confident about leading the pace attack in Pat Cummins’ absence. He is determined to perform well and help his team win the third Test against India.
