Former Australia fast-bowler Jason Gillespie has made a strong case for left-arm pacer Mitchell Starc's inclusion in the playing eleven for the second Ashes Test against England at Lord's, starting on June 28. Gillespie emphasized the importance of keeping bowlers fresh in the hectic series and believes Starc's attacking style could benefit the Australian team.
Starc was part of the playing eleven that secured victory for Australia in the World Test Championship final against India at The Oval. However, he was dropped in favor of Scott Boland for the first Ashes Test at Edgbaston, where Australia won a thrilling encounter by two wickets.
Gillespie highlighted the condensed nature of this Ashes series, with five Tests scheduled in under seven weeks, as a factor that should influence the team's selection decisions. He stated, "Traditionally, you wouldn't look to change a winning team, but it's important to keep your bowlers as fresh as possible in this hectic schedule."
The former fast-bowler believes that Starc's aggressive approach, combined with strategic field placements, could work well against England. Gillespie noted that if Australia adopts similar field settings to those used on the opening day of the series, Starc would receive the necessary protection. Starc's attacking style, characterized by pitching the ball up and swinging it, along with his ability to execute yorkers, could be advantageous for the team.
Gillespie suggested that Boland is likely to make way for Starc in the playing eleven. He pointed out that England targeted Boland in the first Test, employing an aggressive approach to unsettle the right-arm seamer. Gillespie believes that Starc's inclusion would provide Australia with an opportunity to match England's aggression with their own firepower.
The former cricketer also emphasized the potential of Starc and Josh Hazlewood forming a lethal bowling combination against England at Lord's. With England's intent to attack, Gillespie highlighted the importance of assessing bowlers' strike rates. Starc, with a strike rate of fewer than 50 deliveries per wicket, brings a potent wicket-taking threat. Hazlewood, despite a slightly higher strike rate at 57, offers better economy. Gillespie sees the combination of Starc's aggression and Hazlewood's control as a well-balanced option for Australia.
As the second Ashes Test approaches, Gillespie's recommendation to bring back Mitchell Starc adds an intriguing aspect to the selection process for the Australian team. With their sights set on maintaining their winning momentum, the team management will have to carefully consider the potential impact of Starc's attacking style and the need to keep their bowlers fresh in the demanding series.