Mitchell Starc has reaffirmed his status as one of cricket’s most fearsome fast bowlers, claiming three early wickets across the first three innings of the opening Ashes Test in Perth. His pace, swing, and accuracy have left England’s openers reeling, and cricket historians are calling the Perth Test one of the most extraordinary bowling displays in recent memory.
Starc struck twice against Zak Crawley, first claiming a simple edge in the opening innings, then executing a sensational diving catch in England’s second innings. In total, he has now claimed 25 first-over wickets in Test cricket—a remarkable record that underscores his new-ball mastery.
The Australian paceman’s performance has not only set the tone for his team but has also created a rare psychological edge over the English batting line-up. Starc’s ability to claim wickets before the scoreboard even moves has put England on the back foot, forcing them to reconsider shot selection and approach at the very start of innings.
Cricket analysts suggest that Starc’s combination of swing and precision is unmatched in the current era. “He’s redefining what it means to be a new-ball bowler,” said one commentator. “To remove an opener twice before they score, and with such style, is extraordinary.”
With the series only just beginning, Starc has already written his name into the Ashes lore, proving why he remains one of the most feared bowlers in world cricket.