Mitchell Starc: Profile of Australia’s Left-Arm Quick

Mitchell Starc is one of the leading left-arm fast bowlers of his era. Tall and quick, with a whippy action that brings the ball in towards right-handers, he is best known for his yorkers and for delivering his best performances in major tournaments.

Early life and rise

Born in Sydney in 1990, Starc rose through the New South Wales system and made his ODI debut in 2010. His Test debut followed in November 2011 against New Zealand in Brisbane. Over the following years he became a core member of Australia’s fast-bowling group, alongside bowlers such as Josh Hazlewood and Pat Cummins.

Playing style

Starc’s main weapon is pace combined with late swing. His left-arm angle makes the ball move across or into the batter, and his yorker, delivered at speed, has accounted for numerous tailenders and top-order players alike. He also bats usefully in the lower order and has played several valuable innings.

Career highlights

Starc was Player of the Tournament at the 2015 ODI World Cup, which Australia won on home soil. His first-ball yorker to Brendon McCullum in the final against New Zealand at the Melbourne Cricket Ground is one of the tournament’s lasting images. He also took 27 wickets at the 2019 World Cup in England, a record for a single edition at the time, and was part of Australia’s winning squad at the 2023 World Cup.

In Test cricket he has been a key member of Australia’s attack, helping the side win the 2023 World Test Championship final and retain the Ashes in 2023.

In franchise cricket he has played for Royal Challengers Bangalore in the IPL, and later joined Kolkata Knight Riders, who won the 2024 title. At that year’s auction he became the most expensive player in IPL history up to that point. He has also played for Sydney Sixers in the Big Bash League. Starc is married to Australian women’s cricketer Alyssa Healy.

Legacy

Starc’s career is ongoing, so this profile does not quote totals or make claims about current form. What stands out is his record of delivering in World Cups and his role in a very successful era for Australian fast bowling.

Frequently asked questions

What is Mitchell Starc best known for?

He is known for his left-arm pace, his yorkers and his strong World Cup records.

Was Starc Player of the Tournament at the 2015 World Cup?

Yes, he took the award when Australia won the tournament at home.

Which IPL team won the 2024 title with Starc?

Kolkata Knight Riders won the 2024 IPL with Starc in their squad.