Australia fast bowler Mitchell Starc's remarkable performance in the World Test Championship (WTC) Final 2025 has left South African fast-bowling great Dale Steyn awestruck. Starc once again delivered when it mattered most, removing both Aiden Markram and Ryan Rickelton quickly in the first innings against South Africa.
Speaking as a panel expert, Steyn explained how the 35-year-old was able to get those two early wickets, turning the tide back in Australia's favour. Starc dismissed Markram in the first over with a classic inswinger that crashed into the stumps. A couple of overs later, Rickelton edged a delivery that moved away, falling to the slips.
The fast-bowling legend also praised Starc's ability to perform in big matches. He noted that such performances have become a habit for the Australian, driven by belief, consistency, and reputation.
“But it’s also about big-match temperament. He’s done it before, he believes he can do it again — and when he does, it becomes a habit. He also builds a reputation. He gets the backing of his captain. We know how he's going to do it, and if you look at his wickets, they’re all very similar,” Steyn concluded.
By the end of Day 1, Starc’s twin strikes, along with a wicket each for Pat Cummins and Josh Hazlewood, had South Africa under pressure. With four more days to play, Australia will fancy their chances of retaining the WTC title.
