'We Welcome Him With Open Arms'- Josh Hazlewood Thrilled To Have Mitchell Starc Back In The Squad For The Test Series Against India

The news of Mitchell Starc storming back in contention for the first Test against India in Adelaide has hugely pleased Josh Hazlewood. Mitchell Starc, who opted out after the first T20 international in Canberra due to family reasons, joined the Australian squad at the nick of time for the marquee four-match Test series against India. Josh Hazlewood was thrilled about the same, conceding Starc remains a dangerous prospect with the pink ball.

Mitchell Starc could not enjoy a fruitful white-ball series against India as he managed only one wicket in the two ODIs he played; however, gave a glimpse of his best in the first T20I. In the only T20I that the left-arm speedster played, he finished with figures of 4-0-34-2. Moreover, Starc is the highest wicket-taker in day and night Tests and will indeed fancy his chances against India, who will play their first in Australia in Adelaide, starting next Thursday.

Josh Hazlewood termed Mitchell Starc, his potential new-ball partner, as a crucial member of the attack and reminded of his record with the pink ball. The 28-year old understands that very few things have gone according to the plan and is confident that the left-arm seamer would have been doing everything to keep himself fit. Hence, Starc would be ready to go.

“He’s obviously a huge part of our team and attack. Everyone knows his numbers with the pink ball. We welcome him with open arms. I think he would be fine. Nothing goes to plan. He is a professional player and would have been doing everything he could have over the last week. He will be ready to go and jump straight in,” Hazlewood said as quoted by Times of India.

I’m sure this hiccup will be no different for him: Josh Hazlewood

Josh Hazlewood further said that 2020 has taught them to be prepared for all the unforeseen circumstances that come along and athletes are always struggling with schedules and travels. Thus, he expects Mitchell Starc to be ready amid the hiccup that forced him to miss some matches.

“If we’ve learned anything from this year, it is that nothing goes per your plan and we’re always struggling with schedules and travel and different things. I’m sure this hiccup will be no different for him,” he added.

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