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BGT: With bowling all-rounder Mitchell Starc’s fitness in question, Australian wicketkeeper Alex Carey has expressed confidence that the experienced pacer will be ready to take the field for the crucial Sydney Test. Starc had felt back pain throughout the first innings of the Melbourne Test but went on to have a game-changer performance on the last day by sending back Virat Kohli as Australia won an epic contest. Let’s find out more about the situation regarding Starc and the preparation Australia does for the Sydney Test.
Starc’s Injury Update and Recovery Progress
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Mitchell Starc was scanned on the back on Wednesday after the Test at Melbourne, to know about his condition. Even with back pain, Starc worked out in the gym minutes after the scan to indicate he wants to play at the Sydney Test.
Carey, as he has often shared the cricket field with the left-arm paceman Starc for years said that he had nothing to doubt his availability. He will be good, Carey reckoned. One of those batters who won’t give away, Starc is preparing to get himself out there for a match, now more than when the team does.
Starc has been Australia’s best bet in the Border-Gavaskar Trophy so far. With 15 wickets from four Tests at an average of 28.73, Starc hasn’t been very penetrative throughout the series but had a blip in form during the final two Tests of the series.
Key Stats:
For the first three Tests, he was very consistent with an average of 25.91.
– Last Two Tests: His average came down to 41.82, which showed some fatigue or inconsistency.
– Home Ground Woes in Sydney: Starc has never been comfortable at the Sydney Cricket Ground, taking 24 wickets in nine Tests at a higher-than-usual average of 44.16.
Despite these figures, Carey lauded Starc’s performance, particularly in Melbourne. “His first spell in the second innings was the best I’ve seen from him in this series,” Carey remarked. “He’s a quality player, and his bowling has continuously improved.”
Possible Replacements for Starc
If Starc is deemed unfit to play, Australia has viable replacements in the form of Jhye Richardson and Sean Abbott.
Jhye Richardson:
-Richardson hasn’t played a Test since the Ashes series during 2021-22.
-He was impressive in the Big Bash League (BBL) when he picked three wickets for Perth Scorchers versus Adelaide Strikers.
-Richardson will bring pace and depth to the bowling staff
Sean Abbott:
– He is known for his ability to contribute with both bat and ball, which gives depth to Australia’s batting order.
– His all-round capabilities make him a strong contender if Starc is unavailable.
Pressure Mounting on Mitchell Marsh
The third name in the spotlight is Mitchell Marsh, who, in the entire series so far, has only mustered 70 runs. However, this disappointing performance raises concerns about his continued presence in the playing XI. Carey seemed optimistic about Marsh when he said, “He is a quality player, and I believe he will bounce back in Sydney.”
Sam Constas: A Bright Spark
Sam Constas, who played his first game in Melbourne, has won everyone’s hearts for his stunning performance with bat and field. Carey was effusive in his praise and said, “In the first session in Melbourne, I found myself cheering like a spectator. The energy Constas brought to the game was unbelievable. He has introduced a style of play that even caught India off guard.”. I believe he’ll come out really strong in Sydney for the home crowd.
The Stakes in Sydney
If the match is a draw at the Sydney Test, then Australia would take the Border-Gavaskar Trophy, which would become their first series win over India in more than a decade. They would, however, still depend on their Test match against Sri Lanka. Not only do they take the trophy but get a leg up on Australia in the WTC rankings.
Carey’s Outlook on the Series
Carey reflected on Australia’s journey in the WTC, attributing their success to consistent performances over the past two years. “This is the result of playing good cricket for 24 months,” Carey said. “Our team is a blend of experience and skill, but we know India’s capabilities. They are a team that can stage a comeback at any time. Winning the trophy would be the ultimate reward.”
All Eyes on Starc and Sydney
As Australia prepares for the Sydney Test, Starc’s availability remains a focal point. Alternates in the form of Richardson and Abbott are waiting in the wings, but the team would undoubtedly want their ace pacer fit and firing. With the series and WTC final berth at stake, Australia faces a stern test of its depth, resilience, and determination.
