Mitchell Starc’s bowling is so intimidating to the batsmen because of a unique combination of qualities that make him one of the most dangerous fast bowlers in cricket. Let’s explore the top five aspects that make Starc such a formidable force on the field:
First of all, there is his swing with the ball, especially the new ball. Starc’s left-arm angle and his skill at creating late swing mean he’s a constant threat to both right- and left-handed batters. He often troubles batters early in the innings, striking within the first over or two, thereby upsetting the opposition plans immediately.
Next, his lethal yorker is a signature weapon. Delivered at blistering pace, it targets the base of the stumps with unerring accuracy. Starc’s yorkers have dismantled many batters, especially during high-pressure moments. His control over this delivery has been instrumental in both his ODI and T20 success, where death-over bowling plays a crucial role.
The other area where Starc has an edge is that his speed is so consistent for such long periods of time. Often crossing 145 km/h, he adds pace to accuracy and keeps the batters on tenterhooks for his entire spells. The fitness and stamina he boasts allows him to maintain the speed in Test matches as well, a very scarce entity in international cricketing world.
Adaptability across formats is also key to his dominance. While his record-breaking ODI performances—like his 27 wickets in the 2019 World Cup—are legendary, his Test form continues to improve with age. His ability to adjust to different conditions, pitches, and game formats ensures his relevance and effectiveness in any scenario.
Finally, what separates Starc is his ability to execute under pressure. Whether defending low totals or breaking partnerships in Tests, he has risen to the task in crunch time. This mental toughness adds to his physical skills and makes him a go-to bowler for captains in desolate situations.
Mitchell Starc’s combination of swing, speed, accuracy, versatility, and mental strength makes him one of the most feared bowlers of his generation. Batters facing him know they are up against a relentless competitor capable of turning a match in just a few deliveries.