Australian pace bowler Mitchell Starc achieved a significant milestone by reaching 2,000 runs in Test cricket during the 2nd Test against Pakistan in Melbourne. Starc needed eight runs to reach this milestone and accomplished the feat with an 11-ball 9 in Australia’s first innings.
In achieving 2,000 runs in Test cricket, Starc becomes the third Australian cricketer to register both 300-plus wickets and 2,000-plus runs in this format. Playing in his 84th Test match, the 33-year-old Starc has accumulated a total of 2,001 runs at an average of 21.29. While he has not yet reached a century, Starc has notched up 10 half-centuries, with his highest score being 99 against India at Mohali in 2013. Additionally, Starc has been a formidable force with the ball, claiming 338 wickets for the Kangaroos.
Among Australians achieving this exceptional feat, Shane Warne leads with 708 wickets and 3,154 runs, followed by Mitchell Johnson with 313 wickets and 2,065 runs in Test cricket.
In addition to his prowess as a deadly pacer, Starc has proven to be a valuable contributor with the bat for Australia in the longest format. In the current year, Starc has scored 156 runs in Test cricket, participating in eight matches. His highest score in 2023 has been 41, averaging 14.18 with the bat.
On the bowling front, Starc is Australia’s second-highest wicket-taker in Tests this year, securing 34 wickets from eight matches. He trails behind Nathan Lyon, who has claimed 43 wickets in nine Tests in 2023. Starc’s dual capability as a potent bowler and a handy batsman continues to be a valuable asset for the Australian cricket team.
