Former Australian cricketer Kerry O’Keeffe has expressed scepticism about Mitchell Starc’s inclusion in the fifth and final Test of the Border-Gavaskar Trophy (BGT) 2024-25 against India. O’Keeffe cited Starc’s poor track record at the Sydney Cricket Ground (SCG) as a compelling reason for his potential exclusion, even if the pacer regains full fitness.
Starc appeared to have suffered a side strain during India’s first innings of the Boxing Day Test at the Melbourne Cricket Ground (MCG). His performance with the ball was far from his best, returning figures of 0-86 from 25 overs. With an economy rate of 3.44 and only two maidens, Starc struggled to make an impact on a pitch offering little swing or seam movement.
Despite these challenges, Mitchell Starc declared his readiness to bowl on Day 5 if needed. However, O’Keeffe questioned the pacer’s effectiveness at the SCG, highlighting his below-par record at the venue. “Statistically, Sydney has been Starc’s worst ground. He averages 44 per wicket there, which is unusually high,” O’Keeffe remarked on Fox Cricket’s Test Daily.
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Starc’s numbers at the SCG indeed reflect his struggles. In nine matches at the venue, the left-arm quick has claimed just 24 wickets at an average of 44.16, with his best figures being 3-25. Given this history, O’Keeffe suggested Australia might adopt a “horses for courses” strategy, resting Starc for the final Test and opting for fresher, more effective bowlers for the Sydney conditions.
Acknowledging the current match situation, Kerry O’Keeffe emphasized that Starc must give his all on Day 5 in Melbourne. “This is his day. He has to deliver elastic spells and be a decisive factor,” he stated.
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For his part, Starc dismissed concerns about his injury, maintaining that he was fit and ready to contribute. Speaking to ABC Radio, he said, “I’m all good. It’s not something bothering me. My pace is still up in the low 140s km/h. If I need to bowl 20 overs tomorrow, I’ll do it.”
Meanwhile, Australia’s bowling resources have been stretched thin this series. Josh Hazlewood, who was sidelined with a side strain during the second Test, made a brief return in Brisbane but was subsequently ruled out with a calf injury. Sean Abbott and Jhye Richardson were called into the squad for the Boxing Day Test. Abbott awaits his Test debut, while Richardson, returning after a three-year hiatus, has shown promise with 11 wickets in three Tests.
