Mitchell Starc delivered a pivotal performance during the World Test Championship final, scoring his first half-century in six years, which proved crucial for Australia’s survival in the match. Starting day three with an unbeaten 16 and a lead of 218 runs, Starc faced early adversity when Nathan Lyon was dismissed for just 2 runs, trapped lbw by Kagiso Rabada.
Despite the pressure mounting and Australia on the brink of a quick dismissal, Starc, alongside Josh Hazlewood, managed to extend the innings, frustrating the South African bowlers. His gritty knock was made even more significant considering he had been dropped by Marco Jansen just before the end of day two.
Starc’s half-century, which he reached after spending 192 minutes at the crease and facing 131 balls, garnered praise from Kevin Pietersen, who highlighted its importance in demonstrating Australia’s resilience and competitiveness. The left-handed bowler last achieved a similar milestone in 2019 against England, where he scored 54 not out.
In the wake of Starc’s efforts, Hazlewood was dismissed for 17, caught in the covers by Keshav Maharaj off the bowling of Aiden Markram. With this final wicket, Australia was bowled out for 207, setting a challenging target of 281 runs for South Africa. Pietersen commended Starc’s outstanding innings, noting its significance in the broader context of the match.