After helping Australia secure a semi-final victory against South Africa, Mitchell Starc shared his insights on the pivotal moments that defined the match, particularly emphasizing the significance of the powerplay.
“It’s probably not been the tournament I would have liked from the get-go, but it’s nice to step up in a big game. And I think our powerplay was probably what got us on our way.”
Praise for Bowling Partner Hazlewood
Starc gave credit to his bowling partner, Josh Hazlewood, for his exceptional performance, especially during the powerplay.
“The way Josh bowled throughout to finish two for 12 (from eight overs) was incredible. I think looking at Josh’s pitch map, that’s what he does so well in Test Match bowling. He was incredible today, and the way we run off each other to have that powerplay that we did and carry some momentum through the middle was how we want to start matches. It was nice to do it in a big game.”
Anticipation for the World Cup Final
Looking ahead to the World Cup final against India, Starc expressed eagerness to face the formidable Indian top order.
“It’s why we play the game. We want to take on the best. They’ve been the best in the tournament so far and we both find ourselves in the final. That’s what World Cups are about. You want to take on the best throughout, and we certainly come up against a team that has obviously led from the front through the tournament and they’re undefeated.”
Memories of Previous Encounters
Reflecting on the upcoming final, Starc recalled Australia’s victory against India in the World Test Championship earlier in the year.
“Certainly, guys in both changing rooms have been there before at different formats. Both teams played each other in the [World Test Championship] Final earlier in the year. I don’t think either changing room is new to big occasions.”
A Great Spectacle of Cricket
Acknowledging the expected record and partisan crowd in Ahmedabad, Starc anticipated a fantastic occasion with immense passion.
“It’s certainly going to be a big occasion in a World Cup Final in India. It’s going to be loud. There’s going to be a lot of passion there. It’s going to be a fantastic occasion and no doubt there’s going to be different amounts of pressure at different times on both teams. But yeah, I think it’s just going to be a great spectacle of cricket. And certainly, everyone in our changing room is looking forward to the occasion.”
Facing India Again: A World Cup Tradition
As India and Australia prepare to clash in the World Cup final, Starc recognized the historical significance of their rivalry, dating back to the 2003 World Cup Final in Johannesburg.
“Apart from Australia winning, I don’t know what happened in that game. It was 2003; I was probably asleep. I don’t know; I can’t remember what I did two weeks ago!”
Mitchell Starc’s enthusiasm and confidence set the stage for an electrifying World Cup final as Australia aims to overcome the undefeated Indian side. The left-arm pacer’s focus on key moments, praise for teammates, and anticipation for the high-pressure encounter make the final a must-watch spectacle for cricket enthusiasts worldwide.
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