Mitchell Starc Advocates for Fair Pitches Ahead of the Ashes

Post by : Mara Rahim

Star Australian fast bowler Mitchell Starc has voiced his appeal to pitch curators to create fair wickets that benefit both bowlers and batters ahead of the forthcoming Ashes series against England. He expressed his concerns over the trend of flattening surfaces solely for the sake of extending match duration for additional revenue. The seasoned left-arm pacer shared his thoughts during a recent media interview, highlighting that the sport should prioritize competitiveness and fairness rather than commercial gain.

In light of Australia’s recent 3-1 triumph over India last summer, Starc remarked on the balanced pitches that provided equal chances for both bowlers and batsmen. He commended those conditions for sparking thrilling cricket and expressed hope that curators would maintain that harmony during the Ashes. “I trust the groundsmen will stay true to form and prepare the wickets they prefer,” said Starc, reinforcing his belief in traditional Australian conditions that favor skill over brute force.

The pacer raised concerns regarding the inclination to create flatter pitches aimed at ensuring longer matches and greater ticket sales. “Should we be focusing on revenue from five days, it signals deeper issues,” he cautioned. Starc noted that excessively flat wickets often diminish the contest between bat and ball, turning matches into batting showcases rather than intense sporting showdowns.

England’s adventurous “Bazball” strategy, characterized by fast scoring and fearless play, has been a focal point in the lead-up to the Ashes. Starc recognized that such flatter pitches could benefit England’s aggressive batsmen. After achieving a four-wicket haul for New South Wales in a recent Sheffield Shield domestic encounter against Victoria, he remarked, “Especially if the wickets are this mild. We are aware of how they intend to approach their cricket.” His comments suggested that vibrant pitches would more effectively challenge England’s high-risk batting approach.

After taking a brief hiatus from red-ball cricket, Starc expressed satisfaction with his bowling rhythm during the domestic match at the Sydney Cricket Ground. This outing marked his first first-class appearance since July, and he conveyed confidence leading up to the Ashes series. “I believe the break served me well,” Starc explained, stating that he feels more grounded when maintaining regular bowling practice.

Starc, who recently stepped back from T20 internationals to concentrate on Test cricket, mentioned that he is now in the process of fine-tuning his rhythm ahead of the Ashes opener set to commence in Perth on November 21. “I’ve had conversations with coach Ronnie McDonald. I feel I’ve worked it out, and now it’s about revving up again,” he remarked, outlining his focus on sharpening his bowling pace, precision, and endurance for the long-format contests.

Renowned for his lethal left-arm swing and rapid pace, Starc is anticipated to be a crucial component of Australia’s bowling lineup, working alongside Pat Cummins and Josh Hazlewood. His experience and adaptability render him a powerful asset against England’s aggressive batsmen. Australia is banking on his capacity for early breakthroughs and on capitalizing on home conditions.

With his statements, Starc has sent a clear message to cricket administrators and curators that maintaining the essence and integrity of Test cricket is paramount over profit maximization. Well-balanced pitches not only foster exciting matches but also safeguard the traditional values of the five-day format. For Starc, the essence of cricket lies in the equitable struggle between bat and ball, a principle he believes must be upheld throughout the Ashes.