Australian captain Pat Cummins has spoken out on the immense talent of Mitchell Starc, suggesting he will be remembered as an all-time great.
Starc has been one of Australia's best throughout the first three Ashes Test, reducing England's average batting line up to something which hasn't been able to compete with Australia even at the best of times.
With experienced campaigner Josh Hazlewood missing the last two Tests, and Pat Cummins forced out in Adelaide due to a COVID exposure, Starc has been the leading light for the home side, despite his place being under pressure before the series started.
So close was it that Cummins himself, when announcing the team for the first Test, had mentioned gun Western Australian quick Jhye Richardson has "only just" missed out on selection in the original XI.
But the show of faith in Starc has paid dividends, with the 31-year-old taking 14 wickets at 19.64.
Cummins told The Daily Telegraph that Starc had found another gear.
“We saw last week in Adelaide how he lifted and led the attack. I actually think this summer he’s gone to a new level,” Cummins said.
“He’s experienced. He’s played 70 odd Test matches. But I think he’s found another gear.
“With the ball that’s not swinging – he’s taking wickets consistently. Beating the outside edge consistently.
“He’s been titanic for us.
“At the start of the summer we spoke about how there is external pressure, but absolutely zero internal pressure,” said Cummins.
“We know what a superstar he is. He’ll go down as one of the all-time great Aussie bowlers.
“We’ve got to remember that sometimes.
“He’s got a strike rate under 50. He’s taken 260 odd wickets. He showed his class in all conditions.
“As a captain, I just feel so lucky that I’ve got someone like him in my team.
“He’s a left-armer. You know when you give him the ball he’s just going to create something. I couldn’t be happier for him. Just a brilliant three test matches so far.”
