Mitchell Starc says it is humbling to be talked about in the same breath as cricket’s greats as he closes in on Kapil Dev’s tally of Test wickets, but insists his priority is helping Australia win.
A productive cycle
Starc has been among Australia’s most dependable performers in the current World Test Championship cycle, taking 46 wickets in only eight Tests. He also shone in the recent Ashes series, finishing with 31 wickets. Speaking to Australian Associated Press, the 36-year-old said milestones do not mean much while a player is still active and that he avoids looking too far ahead.
The next target
If Starc passes Kapil Dev, he would then need seven wickets to overtake Dale Steyn’s 439 Test wickets. That would move him closer to the list of the ten highest wicket-takers in Test history.
The secret to longevity
Looking back on 16 years in international cricket, Starc said he hopes he has improved at something over that time. He credited continued learning, adapting and adding new skills, mentioning wobble-seam bowling, greater consistency and a clearer mindset. He remains one of the fittest fast bowlers in the game and often contributes with sharp catching and fielding.
Bangladesh up next
Australia want to strengthen their World Test Championship position against Bangladesh. The first Test is at Marrara Cricket Ground in Darwin from August 13 to 17, and the second is at the Great Barrier Reef Arena in Mackay from August 22 to 26.
