SA vs AUS: Mitchell Starc happy to step up in ‘big game’ semi-final against South Africa

Mitchell Starc has expressed his happiness at stepping up for his side after Australia’s three-wicket win over South Africa in the semi-final of the World Cup 2023.

Starc had a great performance with both bat and ball in the semi-final against South Africa in the ICC Cricket World Cup 2023. While he did not have his best World Cup campaign overall, Starc played a crucial role with the bat in the tense chase against the Proteas. Australia secured a three-wicket victory, setting up a final clash with India.

SA vs AUS, 2nd semi-final: Scorecard | Highlights

Throughout the tournament, Starc’s form was underwhelming compared to his previous World Cup exploits, where he had been the leading wicket-taker in both the 2015 and 2019 editions. In this World Cup, he managed only 10 wickets across eight matches, averaging 43.90, which was a stark contrast to his usual high standards. His economy rate also suffered, indicating that he struggled to contain runs as effectively as in past tournaments.

Despite these struggles, Starc’s contribution in the semi-final was vital. He remained not out at 14, partnering with Pat Cummins to hit the match-winning boundary, ensuring Australia’s place in the final.

With the ball, Starc picked up three wickets for 34 runs in his 10 overs and opened up the game in the powerplay overs alongside Josh Hazlewood.

Speaking at the post-match press conference, the pacer said it was good to step up in a game like the semi-final and felt the first overs with the ball set them on their way to the win. Starc was also delighted with the powerplay wickets as it had eluded them for most of the tournament and felt everyone stepped up on the day.

“Yeah, that’s probably not been the tournament I would have liked from the get go but nice to step up in a big game. And I think our power play was probably what got us on our way.”

“And there were other key moments throughout the day with bat and ball, but to start the game like that with Joshie [Hazelwood] and I, power-play wickets have probably not been our strong suit throughout the tournament, so it’s nice to have a power play, of two for 18 or something like that so the way Josh bowled throughout to finish two for 12 was incredible, and then Trav with bat and ball.”

“I think a lot of guys in the field as well, the way Davey stepped up in the field and led by example. You could probably name everyone at different circumstances through the day to really step up in a big game,” said Starc.