Mitchell Starc's Heroics in WTC Final and Memorable 99 Against India

Starc's Performance in the WTC Final

In the ongoing World Test Championship final at Lord's, South Africa started day three positively by claiming an early wicket. However, Mitchell Starc stepped up, contributing significantly with the bat. The left-arm fast bowler has remained unbeaten at 58, while South Africa requires 282 runs to secure victory. Starc's performance has drawn comparisons to his remarkable innings against India in 2013, where he scored an impressive 99.

Starc's Stunning 99-Run Innings Against India

During the third Test match between India and Australia in Mohali back in 2013, Australia began strongly, with the openers putting together 139 runs for the first wicket. However, a collapse ensued as Indian bowlers struck back, leaving Australia at 251/7 when Starc came to the crease. Indian supporters anticipated a swift conclusion, but Starc stunned the home crowd with his batting prowess, scoring a brilliant 99 off 144 balls. He was ultimately dismissed by Ishant Sharma, who induced an outside edge that MS Dhoni caught. Starc's innings featured 14 boundaries, contributing to Australia's total of 408 runs in the first innings, although India eventually won the match by six wickets.

Starc Reflects on His 99-Run Heartbreak

Ahead of the 2024 Border-Gavaskar Trophy, Mitchell Starc shared his thoughts on his near-century against India during an interview with his wife. He admitted that the memory of that 99-run innings remains difficult to shake off. His wife humorously noted that she had tuned in just in time to witness Starc's century attempt, only to see him dismissed shortly thereafter.