Suspense on Mitchell Starc’s fitness, Alex Carey hopes to play in the next test

Australian wicketkeeper batsman Alex Carey is confident that fast bowler Mitchell Starc will play in the fifth and final Test of the Border-Gavaskar series against India to be played at the Sydney Cricket Ground (SCG) despite rib pain. The fitness of 34-year-old Starc remains a matter of concern for Australia.

Starc was injured during the Boxing Day Test and was suffering from rib pain since the third day. However, with the help of the team physio, he continued his bowling and contributed to the team’s victory.

Carey confident: Starc will return

Alex Carey expressed confidence about Starc’s fitness while talking to reporters on Wednesday.

• Carrie said:
  • “He will be fine. Hopefully he will play the fifth Test match.”
  • “I have been playing with Starc for a long time. He is a strong player. “Obviously he’s in pain, but I’m sure he’ll be ready to play.”

Australian selectors will evaluate Starc’s fitness before the Test match, but Carey has expressed full confidence in his teammate.

Opportunity to capture Border-Gavaskar Trophy

Australia has a 2-1 lead in the series.

• Win or Draw:
  If Australia wins or draws this Test, it will lift the Border-Gavaskar Trophy for the first time since 2014-15.
• India’s challenge:
  To win this trophy for the fifth consecutive time, India will have to win the final Test match.

Options in Starc’s absence

If Mitchell Starc is rested, Australia can include fast bowler Jhye Richardson in the team.

• Richardson’s Experience:
  • He played his last Test in December 2021.
  • Richardson said on his chances of being selected in the team:
    • “I am not thinking too much about it, but if the opportunity comes, I will try to take full advantage of it.”