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Mitchell Starc was selected over Jackson Bird for the third seamer’s role in the 3rd Test. However, he proved that he is not ready for Test cricket, and lacks the consistency needed to succeed at test level.
Starc is one of the most dangerous bowlers in the world, not many can argue against this, but he spends 99% of the time releasing pressure on the batsman and leaking runs.
The only time Starc is economical is when he bowls so wide that the batsman don’t want to go any where near the ball. Do we really want someone so unreliable playing for Australia?
His bowling also affects the other bowlers in two important ways. His inconsistency means that the captain has to take him off and bowl the other two seamers. This has an impact on the other bowlers’ work rates. The other reason is his constant pressure releasing reduces the probability of the others taking wickets. The batsmen feel relaxed and are much less likely to play a false shot.
Jackson Bird is the obvious replacement, but not too many would be surprised if James Faulkner was brought in to bring an extra batsman and the left-arm option.
Bird is the best replacement for Starc and should have played at Old Trafford. If Siddle, Harris and Bird line up at Durham, it would create a bowling line-up suited to English conditions. They all bring consistency, build pressure and slow the run rate, making scoring difficult for the English.
So Roarers, what should the bowling attack be at Durham?
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