Mitchell Starc, now celebrated as one of cricket’s most dangerous left-arm pacers, delivered a spell for the ages in his 100th Test—claiming career-best figures of 6/9 and spearheading Australia to a massive win over the West Indies. His achievement on this milestone match left the cricket world in awe, but it was a moment over a decade ago that convinced former Australian captain Ricky Ponting of Starc’s extraordinary future.
Ponting’s Early Belief in Starc
- Ricky Ponting recently shared that he saw something special in Mitchell Starc as early as 2012.
- During a spell against Indian legend Sachin Tendulkar, Starc bowled with such pace and bounce that even Sachin was troubled, fending a short ball awkwardly into short leg.
- Ponting recalled: “When you could see that sort of pace and bounce and have someone like Sachin not be able to cope with it, I think that was the reassurance for all of us that there was probably something extra special there for Mitchell Starc.”
Starc’s Career-Best Performance in 100th Test
- In the third Test against West Indies, Starc recorded an incredible 6-for-9, demolishing the opposition for just 27 runs in their second innings.
- This dominant display sealed a 176-run win for Australia and completed a 3-0 series sweep, adding another chapter to Starc’s growing legend.
The Relentless Drive to Improve
- Since making his debut in 2011, Starc has taken 725 international wickets across formats.
- Ponting noted Starc’s continuous improvement:
- Gaining a deeper understanding of his game and body.
- Seamlessly adding new skills, including a three-quarter seam “wobble ball” that has made his in-swinger more lethal and added important variation to his arsenal.
- Ponting said: “He’s got better and better. Like skill-wise and mentally, I think he understands his body, understands his game probably better than ever, especially the last couple of years.”
A Modern-Day Legend
- Starc’s hunger to improve—not just his natural talents—has turned him into a modern-day great.
- Delivering his best-ever spell in his 100th Test, he powered Australia to an emphatic Test victory and showed why he continues to be a game-changer.
Summary Table: Starc’s Recent Achievements
| Milestone | Performance | Opponent | Series Result |
|---|---|---|---|
| 100th Test | 6/9 in 2nd Innings | West Indies | Australia won 3-0 |
Mitchell Starc’s story—spotted early, rising relentlessly, and dominating on the biggest stages—is a testament to his talent and determination.
