Australia's premier pace Mitchell Starc's back injury is being monitored as he has been sent for scans couple of days before the all-important fifth and final Test against India which is scheduled to start from January 3 at the Sydney Cricket Ground (SCG). The Australian cricket team is currently evaluating the fitness of Starc amidst the fag end of the Border-Gavaskar Trophy 2024-2025.
Mitchell Starc to miss fifth Test against India?
Meanwhile, CodeSports has reported that Starc has been sent for scans just two days before the start of the final Test. This decision stems from concerns regarding his back, which has been causing him discomfort since the previous match. During the Melbourne Test, Starc received on-field treatment for his back, likely due to the physical demands exertion of bowling.
Considering Starc's condition, Australia might contend with the absence of their star pacer in the upcoming Sydney Test.
Mitchell Starc's workload in the Border-Gavaskar Trophy has been substantial, having bowled 131.2 overs across the four Tests. This workload has undoubtedly taken a toll on his body. Following the Melbourne Test, Starc experienced discomfort in his ribs, prompting medical scans to assess the extent of the issue. He could only take one wicket across two innings of the fourth Test against India. However Australia ended up winning the Test against India by 184 runs.
The potential absence of Mitchell Starc from the final Test could open the door for other pacers like Jhye Richardson or Beau Webster to feature in the playing XI. However, replacing Starc's quality and impact would be a challenging task. His absence would be a significant blow to the Australian team, particularly with the series on the line. Starc has been a key contributor to Australia's success in the series, emerging as the second-highest wicket-taker for the team. He has claimed 16 wickets, playing a crucial role in establishing Australia's 2-1 lead in the series.
The Australian cricket team will be eagerly awaiting news on Mitchell Starc's fitness ahead of the final Test. Having not secured the Border-Gavaskar Trophy since the 2014-15 season.
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Meanwhile, Australia captain Pat Cummins in the press conference following the conclusion of MCG Test, earlier said that Starc is fully fit and available for final showdown in Sydney.
"I think every fast bowler knows it, the first ball of a spell when you're a bit sore, it's always hurts a little bit more. So yeah, I'm pretty confident he'll be fine. We'll reassess in a couple of days but yeah, he's managing a couple of sore bits, looked like his ribs or something. But he's a warrior. He gets through. He never even contemplates not being an option to bowl. So, yeah, other than being in pain, he's fully fully fit and available," Cummins said in the post-match press conference.