Australian fast bowler Mitchell Starc has capped off a phenomenal Ashes summer by winning the prestigious Compton-Miller Medal as the player of the series. His exceptional contributions with both bat and ball were pivotal in securing a dominant 4-1 series victory for Australia.
A Series-Defining Performance
The decision for the top honour sparked considerable debate, with Travis Head also in contention after amassing a series-leading 629 runs. However, the selectors ultimately recognised Starc's remarkable dual impact across all five Tests. The 35-year-old left-armer claimed a staggering 31 wickets and chipped in with 156 valuable runs, showcasing his all-round prowess.
Starc's wicket haul is the most prolific in an Ashes series since fellow left-arm paceman Mitchell Johnson terrorised England with 37 scalps during the 2013/14 whitewash. After receiving the medal, Starc admitted to feeling "a little bit tired" following a gruelling schedule of five Tests in just eight weeks, but remained upbeat about his physical condition.
Setting the Tone from the Start
Starc's series was defined by a blistering start. He set the tone in Perth during the first Test, delivering a match-winning 10-wicket haul that included career-best first-innings figures of 7-58. This performance powered Australia to an eight-wicket victory and established early dominance.
Despite carrying a heavy workload, his consistency never wavered. He secured at least four wickets in each of the remaining four Tests. His ability to strike early was a constant threat; on four separate occasions, he dismissed an English opener in the very first over of their innings, removing Zak Crawley three times and Ben Duckett once.
Crucial Contributions with the Bat
Beyond his bowling heroics, Starc played several critical innings that shifted momentum. He scored vital half-centuries in both Brisbane and Adelaide when the series outcome was still in the balance. Reflecting on his batting, Starc joked, "I'm glad I got a few out of the middle at the start of the series, because I certainly didn't at the end."
He highlighted the importance of partnerships, particularly a gritty stand with Scott Boland in Brisbane. "Batting with Scotty in Brisbane was a big one for us," Starc said. "To get through to that night session and bowl with the newer pink ball under lights was a massive advantage."
Historic Milestones Achieved
The series was also marked by significant personal milestones for the veteran quick. During the second Test in Brisbane, he overtook Pakistani legend Wasim Akram to become the most prolific left-arm fast bowler in Test history, claiming his 415th wicket.
By the final Test in Sydney, his final dismissal of England's Josh Tongue drew him level with Sri Lankan spin great Rangana Herath. Both left-arm bowlers now share the record for the most Test wickets by a southpaw, with 433 wickets each.
Starc paid tribute to the collective effort of the squad and support staff, emphasising the enjoyable team environment. "It's a great group to be a part of, it's a lot of fun," he remarked, singling out the vibrant atmosphere brought by players like Travis Head. His Compton-Miller Medal victory stands as a fitting tribute to a complete and match-winning Ashes campaign.
