For the last two years, Mitchell Starc has been Australia’s most lethal bowler, across formats. Since 2018, he has taken 58 wickets in 12 Tests. Australian legend Glenn McGrath called him the team’s X factor because of his pace, swing and adeptness with both the new and old ball. He skipped IPL 2020 and is refreshed for India’s tour. In an exclusive interview with THE WEEK, Starc said there was very little to separate the sides. Excerpts:
Q/Glenn McGrath called you the X factor. Do you feel your skill with the old ball gives you an advantage over Indian batsmen?
A/That is nice of Glenn to say. I think consistency and pace are key. Being a left-armer can also help at times.
Q/How do you plan to exploit India’s lack of preparation for Test matches?
A/They will be ready, they have too many world-class players.
Q/Most Indian batsmen have experience playing both at the top and in the middle order, especially in Tests. How does that impact the bowling plan?
A/We have plans for all of the batters we play against regardless of where they bat. It is [about] sticking to those plans.
Q/Do you look at the tour as a revenge series?
A/It certainly hurt to be soundly beaten last time. But, that was two years ago and we have a very different side. [One that has] not played together a lot. We played really well last summer, so we will be looking to continue that momentum.
Q/Cheteshwar Pujara has not played competitive cricket for 10 months. Do you feel he is at a disadvantage?
A/Not at all. He was so important to India last time and will be again. He faced a lot of balls and kept us on our legs for long periods. We need to be sharp against him.
Q/India lacks experience in day/night Tests, especially away from home. Your thoughts on how to exploit the pink ball, especially in Australian conditions.
A/Hopefully, it is as much the conditions that will help, not so much the fact that it is a night game. India won their only Test under lights. We do not see that being an issue for them.
Q/What aspect of your bowling are you enjoying the most?
A/I really enjoy bowling as part of the unit and working together. I also enjoy the contest in the closing overs in tight games.