Starc Vows to ‘Milk My Body’ for Test Cricket After 10-Wicket Masterclass Against Bangladesh

Mackay: Mitchell Starc reaffirmed his commitment to Test cricket after producing a match-winning 10-wicket haul against Bangladesh, saying the longest format remains the pinnacle for him and he wants to continue playing for Australia for as long as his body allows.

Starc was named Player of the Match and Player of the Series after spearheading Australia’s innings-and-51-run victory in the second Test at Mackay on Sunday. The result levelled the two-match series 1-1 following Bangladesh’s nine-wicket win in Darwin.

The left-arm pacer claimed six wickets in the first innings and added four more in the second to finish with 10/51, his best 10-wicket haul in a home Test. His performance also helped Australia complete the two-day Test in just 750 balls.

Asked about his longevity and commitment to Australia’s Test team, Starc made it clear that the format remains his biggest priority.

“Yeah, it’s still hanging together. Yeah, I thoroughly enjoy being part of this group. Test cricket, I’ve said it before, will always be the pinnacle for me,” Starc said after the match.

The 36-year-old also highlighted the significance of the Australian team environment and the celebrations that follow a Test victory.

“Later on when we get to sing the song, and he’s leading it, that’s one of the main reasons why we like to do it, love to do it. So, yeah, I’d like to milk my body for all I can for Test cricket, and that’s how it...” he said.

Starc’s comments came after another outstanding performance that took him into the top 10 wicket-takers in Test history. However, the veteran pacer remained focused on the present rather than milestones.

“I don’t know yet. I’m still playing. Nathan did remind me that I’ve just stepped on the first rung of the ladder and he’s still up there looking down on me. So, still got a way to go,” Starc said, referring to teammate Nathan Lyon. IANS

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