Why Starc is so good with the pink ball – Finn
In anticipation of the highly anticipated day-night second Ashes Test, former England fast bowler Steven Finn has shed light on why Australia’s Mitchell Starc stands out as a formidable competitor when bowling with the pink ball. Finn notes that the pink ball’s unique properties, including its enhanced visibility under lights and its tendency to swing more, play to Starc’s strengths. Known for his express pace and ability to generate steep bounce, Starc has consistently proven to be a nightmare for batsmen in day-night conditions. His left-arm angle and the ability to seam the ball make him particularly effective, especially during the twilight hours of play, when the ball is most likely to swing.
Finn elaborates on Starc’s bowling technique, emphasizing how his natural ability to generate swing is amplified with the pink ball. The lacquered surface of the pink ball allows for a more pronounced seam, which Starc exploits to great effect. This advantage is crucial during the evening sessions, where the conditions favor bowlers and can lead to dramatic shifts in momentum. Finn recalls instances from previous matches where Starc’s performances have turned the tide in favor of Australia, citing his ability to take crucial wickets at pivotal moments. With the Ashes series on the line, Starc’s role will be pivotal, and Finn’s insights highlight the strategic importance of understanding the nuances of the pink ball in the context of high-stakes Test cricket.
As the teams prepare for the second Test, the focus will undoubtedly be on how Starc leverages these conditions to challenge the English batting lineup. With the historical context of the Ashes series and the added pressure of day-night cricket, all eyes will be on Starc to see if he can replicate his previous successes. Finn’s analysis not only underscores Starc’s capabilities but also sets the stage for what promises to be an exhilarating match, as both teams vie for supremacy in one of cricket’s most storied rivalries.
Former England fast bowler Steven Finn explains why Australia fast bowler Mitchell Starc excels with the pink ball before the day-night second Ashes Test.
