Starc on the Cusp of Greatness, Reckons Former Aussie Pacer

image-lfglbho8Starc picked up a fifer in 2nd ODI [AP Photos]

Australian bowling spearhead, Mitchell Starc has drawn high praise from former Australian fast bowler Shaun Tait, who has suggested that the southpaw is on the brink of becoming one of the greatest white-ball bowlers that Australia has ever produced.

The dynamic pacer's recent performance in the second ODI against India, where he claimed his ninth five-wicket haul in ODIs, was instrumental in Australia's comprehensive 10-wicket victory that helped them level the series 1-1.

Tait stated that Starc's approach of pitching the ball up and swinging it back in, as seen in his performance against India, is reminiscent of the approach used by Shaheen Shah Afridi from Pakistan. 

He commented that regardless of the conditions, the Aussie quick is unafraid to pitch the ball up and back his pace. This, according to him, is a key attribute that distinguishes Starc and makes him close to being one of the greatest white-ball bowlers in Australian cricketing history.

“He reminds me a little of Shaheen Afridi where no matter what the conditions are, he is brave enough to pitch the ball up, almost half-volley length on the stumps and backing his pace. Mitchell Starc is close to one of the greatest bowlers Australia has ever had in white-ball cricket," said Tait on ESPNCricinfo.

The 40-year-old also acknowledged that the Indian batters have struggled against left-arm pacers who can swing the ball at a high speed of around 145 km/h. Reflecting upon the same, Tait urged Indian batters to exercise patience when playing on difficult tracks like the one in Vizag.

“Today, for example, what the Indian players did wrong was to setup for as if it was a flat pitch. Walking across the stumps and playing some loose shots. I think the conditions today didn’t allow for that,” added the former speedster.

Meanwhile, with the series finely poised, Starc's bowling will undoubtedly play a significant role in Australia's bid to clinch victory in the third and final ODI that is slated to be played on Wednesday, March 22 in Chennai.