Mitchell Starc Achieves Milestone in Ashes Series
Starc Joins Prestigious Ashes Wicket-Takers Club
Australian fast bowler Mitchell Starc has entered an exclusive group of bowlers who have taken 30 or more wickets in an Ashes series during this century, as reported by cricket.com.au. He reached this milestone during the fifth and final Test against England at the Sydney Cricket Ground on Thursday.
Throughout the five-match series, Starc claimed 31 wickets across 10 innings, boasting an impressive average of 19.93, which included two five-wicket hauls. As the leading wicket-taker, he played a pivotal role in securing a 4-1 series victory for Australia over England, led by Ben Stokes. Starc stepped up significantly in the absence of seasoned bowlers Pat Cummins, who participated in the Adelaide Test, and Josh Hazlewood, who was sidelined due to injury.
Sydney Test Overview
In the Sydney Test, England opted to bat first and scored 384 runs in 97.3 overs. Joe Root was the standout performer, scoring 160 runs off 242 balls, which included 15 boundaries. This marked Root's second century of the Ashes series, following his performance in Brisbane. Harry Brook contributed a solid 84 runs off 97 balls, while Jamie Smith added 27 runs off 62 balls. For Australia, Mitchell Starc (2/93), Michael Neser (4/60), Scott Boland (2/85), Cameron Green (1/85), and Marnus Labuschagne (1/14) were among the wicket-takers.
Australia's Dominant Response
Australia responded strongly, amassing 567 runs in 133.5 overs, establishing a 183-run lead. Captain Steve Smith scored 138 runs off 220 balls, featuring 16 fours and one six. Beau Webster contributed 71 runs off 87 balls, while Travis Head was the top scorer with 163 runs off 166 balls, including 24 boundaries and one six. For England, Brydon Carse (3/130), Josh Tongue (3/97), captain Ben Stokes (2/95), Will Jacks (1/34), and Jacob Bethell (1/52) took wickets.
England's Second Innings Fightback
In their second innings, England's Jacob Bethell showcased an impressive performance, scoring 154 runs off 265 balls, including 15 fours. Ben Duckett (42 off 55 balls) and Harry Brook (42 off 48 balls) also contributed to England's total of 342 runs, setting a target of 160 runs for Australia. Mitchell Starc (3/72), Scott Boland (2/46), Michael Neser (1/55), and Beau Webster (3/64) were the wicket-takers for Australia.
Australia Clinches Series with Final Test Victory
In pursuit of the target, Australia secured a five-wicket victory, with contributions from Head (29), Jake Weatherald (34), and Marnus Labuschagne (37). Josh Tongue had a notable performance for England, taking three wickets (3/42). Starc's exceptional bowling earned him the Player of the Series award, while Travis Head, who scored over 600 runs in the series, was named Player of the Match.