[Watch] Starc Puts Marcus Harris' BGT Dream In Doubt With A Fierce Blow To His Hand
Mitchell Starc hits Marcus Harris hard on left arm in Sheffield Shield (@cricketcomau/X.com)
Mitchell Starc delivered a crucial breakthrough for New South Wales shortly after lunch at the MCG, dismissing Test hopeful Marcus Harris for 26. Harris, who had worked hard to survive the challenging conditions in the opening session, couldn't escape Starc's wrath as a fiery delivery hit him on the left arm, leaving a big and painful bruise behind.
With the Border Gavaskar Trophy 2024-25 on the cards, both India and Australia are getting their preparations right. While India is playing a home Test series against New Zealand, Aussies are busy grinding in domestic tournament i.e Sheffield Shield.
That being said, during a recent game between New South Wales and Victoria, veteran pacer Mitchell Starc had an intense battle with Marcus Harris, aiming for a Test call up in the upcoming series against India.
Marcus Harris dismissed cheaply in Sheffield Shield
With Cameron Green injured, Steve Smith is likely to move back to middle-order, leaving the opening slot vacant. Hence, Harris is viewed as a potential candidate and he would be hoping that the blow on his hand is not serious enough to rule him out of the series.
With an opportunity to shine and prove his worth to selectors, Marcus Harris opened Victoria's innings alongside Ashley Chandrasinghe. However, Starc bowled challenging spells with the new ball.
Harris had fought valiantly against the swing, seam, and bounce offered by the dreadful MCG pitch. Late in the first session, Starc struck him on the underside of his left arm, leaving Harris with a noticeable bruise. Despite the discomfort, Harris continued to battle through, but after the break, Starc's persistence paid off.
Eventually, Starc induced the mistake, as Marcus Harris failed to control a leg glance, resulting in a crucial catch. While Harris might feel unlucky, Starc's impressive bowling deserved the wicket, delivering a blow to Harris' hopes of a Test recall.
Green ruled out, Smith to bat at no.4
In the aftermath of Cameron Green's back injury, Australian chief selector George Bailey confirmed that Steve Smith had made a request to drop down to his usual batting order, which is at no.4, for the upcoming Test series against India. Meanwhile, for the opening slot, Travis Head, Cameron Bancroft and Marcus Harris are viewed as potential options.