Adelaide [Australia]: Australia’s veteran fast bowler Mitchell Starc delivered a stunning performance on the opening day of the second Test of the Border-Gavaskar Trophy in Adelaide, as he struck early to dismiss India’s Yashasvi Jaiswal with a brilliant inswinging delivery.
Starc, known for his aggressive approach with the pink ball, had a straightforward plan to get rid of Jaiswal. He revealed, “At the stumps, hit the pads. That’s it. Nothing special.” The inswinger left Jaiswal helpless as he tried to play across the line, only to be trapped in front of the stumps on the very first ball of the match. The crowd erupted as Starc made an early breakthrough, setting the tone for a thrilling session.
Starc, who had been criticized by Jaiswal in Perth for his deliveries being “too slow,” seemed to have gotten his revenge, sending the young opener back to the dressing room. The fast bowler’s relentless pursuit of early wickets was evident as he continued to dominate the Indian batting lineup, finishing the day with impressive figures of 6/48, helping Australia bowl India out for just 180.
Reflecting on his performance, Starc stated, “It’s always a nice way to start. It is a big Test match, it’s a big series.” His efforts were critical in Australia gaining the upper hand on the opening day.
However, Nitish Kumar Reddy of India fought back with an aggressive counter-attack, scoring a quick-fire 42. Reddy’s onslaught was finally halted when he misjudged a shot off Starc’s bowling, giving the pacer his sixth wicket of the innings.
Commenting on the evolving nature of modern cricket, Starc said, “The game’s changed. Some of these guys come up through IPL cricket, and there’s no fear. They’re quality players from the time they get into international cricket, no matter what their age is.”
In Australia’s response, they lost Usman Khawaja early, but a solid partnership between Nathan McSweeney and Marnus Labuschagne steadied the ship. At the end of Day 1, Australia had moved to 86/1, with McSweeney and Labuschagne unbeaten at the crease. Starc praised the pair for their resilience against a quality bowling attack, especially in the challenging third session with the pink ball.
“It’s a good way to finish the day. A good day all out. But inarguably, the hardest time to bat is that third session with the brand-new pink ball,” Starc remarked. “Very pleased for them,” he added, acknowledging the pressure the duo faced and overcame during their partnership.
With the advantage at the end of Day 1, Australia will look to extend their dominance and build on their solid position when play resumes.