Australian fast bowler Mitchell Starc has called on pitch curators to create bowler-friendly surfaces for the upcoming Ashes series, cautioning against flattening pitches to maximize five-day match revenues, especially with England’s aggressive “Bazball” strategy on the horizon.
During the last home summer, Australia secured a 3-1 victory over India on pitches that supported both batters and bowlers. Starc expressed his desire for this trend to continue in the five-Test series against England.
“I hope the groundsmen remain steadfast and prepare the pitches they envision,” Starc told Australian media.
“If the concern is about five days of revenue, then there are bigger issues at play.”
On Monday, left-arm pacer Starc claimed four wickets for New South Wales on a flat Sydney Cricket Ground pitch during the Sheffield Shield match against Victoria.
Although pleased with his performance in his first first-class match since July, Starc noted the wicket would have favored England’s batters.
“Certainly, especially if the pitches are as lifeless as this,” he commented.
“We understand their style of cricket, but we’ll focus on that next week.”
Starc, who recently stepped away from T20I cricket to extend his Test career, mentioned that his bowling rhythm has returned after an extended break from red-ball cricket, and he is preparing well for the Ashes opener in Perth on November 21.
“The break was beneficial, but I’m someone who maintains rhythm through continuous bowling,” said the 35-year-old.
“I just spoke with (head coach) Ronnie (Andrew McDonald), and I believe I’ve figured it out. Now it’s about getting back into full swing.”
