Subhayan Chakraborty in Chennai
With Australia’s World Cup opener against India at the MA Chidambaram Stadium in Chennai on October 8 drawing ever closer, all eyes are on Mitchell Starc, the Australian left-arm pace sensation, who poses a significant threat to the Indian batting line-up.
Starc, renowned for his lethal left-arm angle and blistering pace, represents one of the biggest challenges for the Indian team. His impeccable record in previous ODI World Cups only adds to his reputation. In the last two editions combined, Starc has scalped an impressive 49 wickets in just 18 games, solidifying his status as a true game-changer on the world stage.
In a recent World Cup warm-up match against the Netherlands, Starc’s prowess was on full display as he took a hat-trick. Currently in sixth place on the list of highest wicket-takers in ODI World Cups, Starc knows that if he can replicate his performances from the last two editions, he could even surpass the legendary Glenn McGrath, who boasts a staggering 71 World Cup wickets.
The Indian top order have periodically shown vulnerability against left-arm pacers who can swing the ball. This makes Starc’s presence even more significant for the impending clash.
Interestingly, during their practice session at Chepauk, the Indian batsmen did not encounter any left-arm pacers in the nets, inadvertently highlighting the unique challenge that awaits them when they face Starc.
Starc’s preparations for the encounter were nothing short of meticulous. Australia set the tone for their net session by setting up a JBL speaker, which played peppy tunes like I Can’t See by ROW and Samuel Miller, and Chase the Sun by Planet Funk to create an upbeat atmosphere.
Around 3pm, Starc approached the nets, where Marnus Labuschagne was already honing his skills. Starc’s warm-up routine was intriguing, starting with one-step deliveries and gradually increasing his run-up, which extended to nearly 30 steps, culminating near the sight screen in the practice arena. His first delivery to Labuschagne was a probing length ball. Labuschagne initially struggled to time Starc’s deliveries but soon found his rhythm, displaying a wristy flick and a confident backfoot punch.
Starc then produced a bouncer that Labuschagne smartly ducked and evaded. The camaraderie between Starc and his fellow bowler, Pat Cummins, was evident as they engaged in a lengthy conversation with the bowling coach, Daniel Vettori, possibly strategising for the challenges ahead.
As Labuschagne left the nets after half an hour, Steve Smith took his place. Starc, showcasing his adaptability, switched to bowling around the wicket. Smith, unafraid, stepped out and played a magnificent shot towards the cover region. The rotation continued, with Labuschagne and Smith swapping positions periodically.
Notably, Starc didn’t restrict his interactions to just bowling. He offered valuable insights to the batsmen as well. After a particular delivery to Smith, he stopped the net session and walked over to have a brief discussion, likely about angles and shot selection. This willingness to share knowledge was mutual, as Smith responded with a spectacular straight drive that almost took Starc’s head off, followed by a cheeky uppercut.
Starc had his moment of triumph, cleaning up Smith with a subsequent delivery. After concluding his net session, Smith walked over to appreciate Starc, testament to the productive exchange of ideas during practice.
The discussions continued as Starc and Cummins analysed various angles, different shots, and likely devised a game plan to counter the Indian top-order duo of Rohit Sharma and Virat Kohli. These moments under the scorching Chennai sun were vital for fine-tuning strategies and building chemistry.
As the day’s practice session wound down, Starc and Cummins retreated under the tent, taking a moment to cool off and reflect on their preparations. With Starc in formidable form and plotting his course to take on India, the stage is set for a riveting showdown in Chennai.