Mitchell Starc's Remarkable Turnaround in South Africa Test Series

Mitchell Starc has opened up about his struggles during the ongoing Test series against South Africa, prompting him to analyze his bowling technique. After a thorough review, he made a stunning comeback in the third Test, achieving remarkable figures of 6 for 72. Starc's performance turned the tide for Australia, showcasing his exceptional swing bowling skills. Discover how he overcame his challenges and contributed to his team's success in this thrilling match.

By Narendra Chaudhary Oct 28, 2026, 09:52 IST

Starc Analyzes Bowling Technique Amidst Series Struggles

Cape Town [South Africa], October 28: Australian fast bowler Mitchell Starc expressed that he has been feeling off during the current Test series against South Africa. This prompted him to review video footage from the Durban Test and compare it with his performance during the Ashes.

After a thorough analysis with assistant coach James Franklin, head coach Andrew McDonald, and his wife, Starc concluded that there were no major technical flaws in his bowling action. Instead, he realized that the issue was more about his overall feel rather than his technique.

Starc made a significant comeback in the third Test, improving his performance from 0 for 62 in 12 overs to an impressive 6 for 72 on the first day. Utilizing a bouncer-heavy strategy, he took two wickets with the older ball and then dismantled South Africa's lower order with the new ball, achieving four wickets in just six deliveries through exceptional swing bowling.

“There have been many aspects that haven’t felt right throughout the series. I reviewed some footage last night with [assistant coach] James Franklin and Ronnie [Andrew McDonald], along with my wife, who has seen a lot of cricket,” Starc shared.

“I looked at some clips from the Durban Test alongside Ashes footage to see if there were any discrepancies in my action, but there really weren’t. It was more about how I felt. I might have been overthinking it. The action itself didn’t show much difference,” he added.

South Africa initially had a strong batting performance, but the Australians shifted the momentum late in the day, thanks to Starc's exceptional bowling. He achieved his 20th career Test five-wicket haul as South Africa was bowled out for 329.

It was a remarkable comeback for the Australians after South Africa had established a solid 158-run opening partnership and were at 327/6 late in the day, before Starc's spell turned the tide in favor of the visitors.

Starc concluded with figures of 6/72, acknowledging the effective problem-solving he demonstrated as the day progressed.