Mitchell Starc has reclaimed the number one spot in the ICC Test bowling rankings, dethroning South Africa’s Marco Jansen following a dominant performance in Australia’s recently concluded three-Test series. Despite the Australian side falling short in the series with a 2-1 defeat, Starc’s individual brilliance ensured he climbed back to the summit of the global hierarchy. The left-arm pacer finished as the leading wicket-taker for his team with 15 scalps, proving that his experience and skill remain unmatched in the longest format of the game.
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Starc’s ascent was fueled by a masterclass in the final Test, where he claimed nine wickets, including a decisive 6/72 in the first innings. This exceptional effort overshadowed Jansen’s recent rise, which had seen the South African take the No.1 position in both Test bowling and all-rounder rankings just one week prior. Jansen had earned that spot through outstanding contributions with both bat and ball in the second Test, but Starc’s relentless attack in the series finale pushed the Australian back ahead, reaffirming his status as one of the most formidable fast bowlers in cricket history.
The latest rankings update also highlighted the impact of South Africa’s spin attack, with Simon Harmer climbing nine places to seventh. The off-spinner’s surge was driven by a memorable performance in the third Test, where he claimed his maiden 10-wicket haul. While Harmer’s rise underscores the depth of the Proteas’ bowling options, Starc’s return to the top spot serves as a clear indicator of his enduring value. At 36, the Australian pace spearhead continues to set the benchmark for consistency and impact in international Test cricket.
Source: Yahoo Sports
