Adelaide: In the ongoing Ashes series, the cricketing world witnessed another chapter in the compelling rivalry between Australia’s Mitchell Starc and England’s Ben Stokes. During the third Test at Adelaide Oval, Starc once again demonstrated his mastery over the English skipper, dismissing him with a delivery that has become all too familiar to Stokes.
Stokes, who had already faced 198 balls in a valiant effort to keep England in the game, found himself undone by Starc’s in-ducking delivery aimed at his stumps. This dismissal marked the 12th time in Test cricket that Starc has managed to send Stokes back to the pavilion, more than any other fast bowler.
The Art of Dismissal
Starc’s ability to consistently trouble Stokes is no accident. The left-arm pacer’s strategy involves drawing Stokes out of his defensive shell and into a full-blooded drive. This tactic has proven effective, with Starc clean-bowling Stokes six times in Tests, including twice in the current series.
Stokes’ defensive prowess is well-regarded in the cricketing community. His ability to block and bunt his way through challenging innings has been evident in several Ashes matches, such as his 159-ball stand in Adelaide (2025) and his 152-ball effort at Headingley (2019). However, Starc’s evolution as a bowler, particularly his mastery of the wobble seam, has allowed him to exploit even the smallest gaps in Stokes’ technique.
Historical Rivalry and Tactical Mastery
The rivalry between Starc and Stokes dates back to the 2015 Ashes series. Over the years, Starc has developed a deep understanding of Stokes’ game, utilizing this knowledge to craft specific plans for his dismissal. This long-standing rivalry has produced memorable moments, such as Starc’s yorker that dismissed Stokes during the 2019 World Cup when the Englishman was on the verge of a century.
In the current series, Starc’s tactics have been on full display. In Perth, he set up Stokes with two good-length balls outside off stump before delivering a fuller, tighter line that nipped back between Stokes’ bat and pad. The same plan was executed in Adelaide, leading to yet another dismissal.
England’s Struggles and Strategic Missteps
Following Stokes’ dismissal, England’s fortunes in the Test match quickly deteriorated. Despite a promising start to the day, where they trimmed Australia’s lead to 85 and claimed an early wicket, their momentum faltered after lunch. Stokes’ field placements raised eyebrows, as quick wickets were needed to regain control, yet Jofra Archer bowled with a defensive field setup.
Travis Head and Marnus Labuschagne capitalized on the easy runs offered, with Head reaching his fourth successive century on home soil. Meanwhile, Stokes, dealing with a groin issue, did not bowl, further compounding England’s woes.
Stokes’ decision not to bowl, despite being reportedly fit, adds to the growing list of questions surrounding England’s tour strategy.
Looking Ahead
As the series progresses, Stokes will inevitably face Starc again, fully aware of the challenge that awaits him. The psychological battle between the two players adds an intriguing layer to the physical contest on the field.
For cricket enthusiasts, the ongoing duel between Starc and Stokes is a testament to the strategic depth and skill that defines Test cricket. As both players continue to push the boundaries of their capabilities, fans can only anticipate more thrilling encounters in the days to come.
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