Is It a Huge Honour for Starc to Reflect on His 100th Test?

Synopsis
Key Takeaways
- Mitchell Starc is about to play his 100th Test match.
- He is only the second Australian pace bowler to reach this milestone.
- Starc has overcome multiple injuries to continue his career.
- He is on the verge of claiming his 400th Test wicket.
- Starc emphasizes the importance of team support throughout his journey.
Kingston, July 11 (NationPress) As he approaches his remarkable 100th Test match on Sunday, fast bowler Mitchell Starc shares insights into his extensive career and the injuries he has triumphed over, showcasing his resilience in the red-ball arena.
Starc is poised to be only the second Australian pace bowler, following Glenn McGrath, to reach this significant milestone when he plays in the final Test against the West Indies in Kingston on Sunday. This day-night encounter also offers Australia an opportunity to achieve a series sweep.
"I have strived to care for my body and navigate through pain to make a difference for the team," Starc expressed to cricket.com.au ahead of this achievement that only 15 of Australia's 471 Test cricketers have accomplished.
"I've been a player who has faced injuries and left the team short before, and I never wanted that to happen again. So, finding ways to push through discomfort and still contribute significantly was essential for me.
"Additionally, I have received tremendous support from trainers, physiotherapists, and my teammates, who have all played a role in my ability to keep competing and remain part of the group."
With just five wickets required to achieve the prestigious 400 mark, Starc could celebrate on two fronts if he reaches this milestone in Kingston.
"I never imagined I would play even one Test. It’s incredibly humbling to have played this many. It’s a significant honor and something I’ll reflect on more deeply once my career concludes," Starc stated.
"Being mentioned alongside legends like Glenn and having had the privilege to play with others such as Mitchell Johnson (73 Tests), Peter Siddle (67 Tests), and Ryan Harris (27 Tests) has been a stroke of luck in my cricket journey.
"I've had Craig McDermott (71 Tests) as my bowling coach, and Dan Vettori (113 Tests, 362 wickets), the current Australia assistant coach, has also taken numerous Test wickets. Achieving this milestone would be incredibly humbling for me.
"I suppose it just indicates that I’m getting older. However, being able to influence games and approach the 400-wicket milestone has been an enjoyable experience."