Australian head coach Andrew McDonald provided an update on Mitchell Starc’s injury ahead of the fifth Test against India, which begins on January 3 in Sydney. Despite an upper body concerned sustained during Australia’s 148 runs victory in Melbourne, McDonald remained optimistic about the left-arm pacer’s chances of playing in the upcoming match.
Andrew McDonald Optimistic About Starc’s Availability For Sydney Test
Andrew McDonald expressed optimism regarding Mitchell Starc’s potential participation in the final Test of the Border-Gavaskar Trophy in Sydney, although he acknowledged that the pacer was managing a niggle. McDonald confirmed that the decision on Starc’s involvement would be made closer to the start of the New Year’s Test on January 3.
Starc has been dealing with an upper-body issue through out the Melbourne Test. The injury became noticeable during the 3rd day of the test series when he was seen clutching his back during bowling spells and was forced to leave the field at the end of the day’s play. Despite the discomfort the left-arm pacer continued to bowl at the full pace on the final day, playing a key role in helping Australia defend a 330 runs target and secure a victory in the boxing day Test.
Mitchell Starc’s Resilience In Melbourne Test Key To Australia’s Victory
Mitchell Starc delivered a remarkable performance during the Melbourne Test consistently bowling at speeds of around 140 km/h and taking the vital wicket of Virat Kohli before lunch on Day 5. Despite carrying an upper-body niggle he managed to bowl 16 overs in the final innings of a hard-fought Test, which saw India lose seven wickets in the last session, giving Australia the series lead.
Australia’s head coach acknowledged Starc’s injury and stated “Clearly, Starc is carrying something, and we’ll assess that. But other than that, it looks like we came through the match fairly well.” He also talked about the importance of recovery due to the short turnaround before the Sydney Test. Also emphasizing on the fact that the final team lineup will depend on the condition of the pitch. He added, “Any time you get through a game, it’s a good sign for the next one. It didn’t stop him.”
Starc Shows Resilience Despite Injury, Australia Prepares For Sydney Test
McDonald provided insight into Starc’s performance, noting while there was some discomfort early in his spells, Starc has started to regain his full rhythm in the warmed up maintaining impressive ball speed. McDonald highlighted the morning session, where Australia bowled more than 20 overs, as one of their best performances. To ensure the depth in the squad, the Australian added Sean Abbott and Jhye Richardson as back-ups ahead of the Sydney Test, with both players to be available despite their big bash League commitments.
Australia will be aiming to win the Border-Gavaskar Trophy and reclaim it as they have not won since 2014. To do so they need to secure a victory in the Sydney Test series otherwise India will head home as the of the Border-Gavaskar Trophy.
