Mitchell Starc isn’t holding back this time.
The Australian fast bowler has openly criticised Cricket Australia for choosing Perth Stadium over The Gabba in Brisbane as the venue for the first Ashes Test.
Starc, 35, made his feelings clear shortly after the Perth pitch curator tempered expectations about a fiery, wicket-shredding start like last year’s match against India.
“Cricket Australia don’t really listen to players.
We would have liked to start in Brisbane,” Starc said bluntly, leaving no doubt about his disappointment.
Memories of Brisbane and Perth Factor In
For context, Starc’s frustration isn’t surprising.
The Gabba has been a fortress for Australia and a graveyard for England, who haven’t managed a Test victory there since 1986.
The last three Ashes Tests played in Brisbane all ended in dominant wins for the home side.
Meanwhile, Perth Stadium offers a fresh challenge—England has never played an Ashes Test at the venue.
For the visitors, that could be an advantage.
England pacer Gus Atkinson even admitted, “History would say it’s probably a good thing we’re not starting at The Gabba.”
Perth Pitch: Less Fiery, But Still Intriguing
Fans might remember last year’s Perth pitch as an absolute humdinger: 17 wickets fell on day one alone, leaving both Australia and India scrambling.
But this time, curator Isaac McDonald has taken measures to tone things down.
Grass is being maintained between eight and 10mm, ensuring the wicket won’t be as explosive as last year.
Still, the fast bowlers will be watching closely.
Starc will be hoping for something a little livelier to give him that early punch he delivered in the previous Ashes opener, when he dismissed England’s Rory Burns with the very first ball.
England’s Quest for Ashes Glory in Australia
For England, the series presents high stakes.
Veterans Ben Stokes and Joe Root, both 34, have never won an Ashes Test on Australian soil.
With Friday’s opening match marking new territory for the visitors, this could be their last shot at an Ashes victory Down Under.
“It’s a new challenge for everyone,” said Atkinson, capturing the sense of anticipation for England as they step onto the unfamiliar Perth turf.
Australia Unveils Their Lineup
Australia has confirmed its XI for the first Test, introducing veteran quick Brendan Doggett and batsman Jake Weatherald.
All-rounder Cameron Green will bat at six, while Beau Webster misses out.
The team will be keen to rebound after last year’s heavy defeat to India at the same ground.
What to Expect on Opening Day
The series kicks off Friday afternoon, and the cricket world will be watching closely.
Starc, and the rest of the Australian bowling attack, will be eager to set the tone early, while England will be hoping to take advantage of uncharted territory.
With history, strategy, and pride on the line, the Ashes opener in Perth promises plenty of drama before the ball even leaves the pitch.
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