AUS vs PAK: Mitchell Starc Achieves Huge Milestone in 1st ODI, Joins McGrath and Warne in Elite List

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Australia’s Mitchell Starc has added another achievement to his illustrious career by claiming his 100th ODI wicket on home soil. This momentous milestone was achieved in the first ODI against Pakistan, held at the Melbourne Cricket Ground, where Starc made an immediate impact with his sharp pace and accuracy.

The left-arm fast bowler wasted no time in making his mark. Bowling the opening over, Starc dismissed Pakistan’s debutant opener, Saim Ayub, for just one run. Starc’s full-length delivery forced Ayub into a drive, but the attempted shot missed its mark, and the ball crashed into the stumps. With this wicket, Starc etched his name among the elite in Australian cricket, becoming only the fifth Australian bowler to reach 100 ODI wickets at home.

A Place Among Australia’s Finest

Mitchell Starc’s entry into the 100-wicket club puts him alongside some of Australia’s greatest bowlers. He stands fifth in the all-time list of Australian bowlers with the most ODI wickets taken at home, following Brett Lee, Glenn McGrath, Shane Warne, and Craig McDermott. Here’s a look at the current standings:

Known for his consistency and match-winning spells, Starc has played a vital role in Australia’s ODI success over the years. Across his ODI career, he has amassed 241 wickets from 125 innings, averaging an impressive 23.44.

Early Breakthroughs Set the Tone for Australia

Following his milestone wicket of Ayub, Starc continued his impact by removing Abdullah Shafique, further strengthening Australia’s control over the game. After a series of full deliveries, he surprised Shafique with a short ball, which drew an edge, sending him back to the pavilion. With these two early wickets, Pakistan found themselves struggling at 43 for two within just 11 overs.

As the innings progressed, Pakistan captain Babar Azam tried to stabilize the situation, scoring 37 runs before being dismissed by leg-spinner Adam Zampa. By 17.4 overs, Pakistan was reeling at 63 for three, with Mohammad Rizwan at the crease, aiming to rebuild.

Starc’s early breakthroughs have set a strong foundation for Australia, giving them a competitive edge in the match. His performance continues to remind fans and cricket enthusiasts of his role as a spearhead in the Australian bowling attack, especially on home turf.

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