Mitchell Starc on His Bowling Secrets: Focus and Precision
Mitchell Starc, one of Australia’s premier fast bowlers, recently shared insights into the subtle yet crucial aspects of his bowling technique, particularly his approach to releasing the ball. Over the years, Starc’s method has evolved significantly, shifting from a focus on sheer speed and swing to a more refined emphasis on precision.
“Mine’s turned into a spot on the wicket that I want to hit,” Starc explained, reflecting on how his approach has changed. In contrast to his earlier days when he prioritized speed, Starc now focuses on pinpoint accuracy, inspired in part by his teammates Josh Hazlewood and Pat Cummins. “If I look at Josh and Pat, who I’ve played so much against, Josh is up there with the best in the world, hitting one spot over and over and over again,” Starc said. He described Hazlewood’s remarkable consistency, likening his accuracy to hitting a 10-cent coin on the pitch “nine times out of 10.”
Starc admits that this wasn’t always his mindset. Early in his career, his primary goal was to swing the ball and bowl fast. “That was part of my success,” he said, adding with a touch of humor, “I didn’t really know where it was going half the time, so the batter doesn’t.” However, as his game matured, Starc began to understand the value of “aim small, miss small”—a principle that has allowed him to become more consistent.
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This refined focus has been particularly beneficial in the longer formats of the game, where precision can make all the difference. By concentrating on where he wants to pitch the ball and how he wants to manipulate the batsman, Starc has added another dimension to his bowling. “I think that’s helped me be more and more consistent,” he noted, highlighting how a clearer focus on his desired outcomes has enhanced his effectiveness on the field.
Starc’s evolution as a bowler serves as a testament to the importance of adapting and refining one’s technique over time. His journey from raw speed to calculated precision offers valuable lessons not just for aspiring fast bowlers but for any athlete striving for excellence in their sport.
