Adelaide: In the high-stakes arena of Test cricket, few rivalries are as compelling as that between Australia’s Mitchell Starc and England’s Ben Stokes. On a sun-drenched day at Adelaide Oval, this duel reached another dramatic chapter as Starc once again outmaneuvered Stokes, clean-bowling him for the 12th time in Test matches.
The scene was set for a gripping encounter. Stokes, having faced 198 balls, was battling not just the Australian bowlers but also the elements, enduring cramp, dehydration, and sunburn. Yet, despite his resilience, Starc’s in-swinging delivery found its mark, sending the English skipper on a long, frustrated walk back to the pavilion.
Starc’s Tactical Brilliance
Starc’s success against Stokes is no accident. The left-arm pacer has developed a specific strategy to exploit Stokes’ aggressive style. His ability to deliver wobbling seam balls at high speed has often left Stokes vulnerable. The latest dismissal in Adelaide was a textbook example of Starc’s approach: luring Stokes into a drive with a fuller delivery that nipped back sharply, breaching his defense.
This mastery is not new. Starc has been honing his skills against Stokes since the 2015 Ashes series. His evolution as a bowler, particularly his command over the wobble seam, has been instrumental in his dominance over the English all-rounder. The tactic of drawing Stokes out of his defensive shell into a full-blooded drive has paid dividends repeatedly.
The Historical Context
Stokes’ prowess with the bat is well-documented. His defensive skills are considered among the best in world cricket, a fact that Australia knows all too well. Stokes has been a thorn in their side, with crucial innings in previous Ashes series, including memorable half-centuries in Adelaide (2025), Headingley (2019), and Gabba (2025).
However, Starc’s ability to dismiss Stokes has become a recurring theme. In 18 Test matches, Starc has claimed Stokes’ wicket 12 times, a record unmatched by any other bowler. Only Nathan Lyon, with more encounters against Stokes, has devised more plans to counter him.
The Broader Implications
Stokes’ dismissal in Adelaide was not just a personal setback but also a blow to England’s hopes in the series. The team had started the day positively, reducing Australia’s lead and picking up an early wicket. However, the momentum shifted after lunch as England’s field placements and strategy came under scrutiny.
Stokes’ decision not to bowl, despite being fit according to the English camp, raised eyebrows. Known for his willingness to push his physical limits, Stokes’ absence from the bowling attack was notable, especially with the series on the line. This decision adds to the growing list of questions surrounding England’s tour strategy.
Looking Ahead
As the series progresses, the Stokes-Starc rivalry is set to continue. Stokes will undoubtedly face Starc again, aware of the challenge and the history between them. For cricket fans, this ongoing battle offers a fascinating subplot to the broader narrative of the Ashes series.
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