Starc Endorses Doggett as Australia's New Bowling Weapon
Australian fast bowler Mitchell Starc has thrown his full support behind teammate Brendan Doggett, labelling the paceman's rise as a 'hot streak' and declaring him ready for a potential Test debut in the iconic Ashes series. The West Test, set to begin this Friday at Perth Stadium, could see Doggett step into the shoes of the injured Pat Cummins and Josh Hazlewood.
Starc, now the sole survivor of Australia's famed big-three fast bowlers, admitted the situation made him feel 'old', but he emphatically backed the team's depth to perform on the big stage. The comments came after a slick training session on Wednesday, where Starc was in full flight and Doggett delivered a lethal spell with the ball.
Doggett's Meteoric Rise to National Contention
Brendan Doggett, a 31-year-old quick from South Australia, is now in pole position for a Baggy Green. His journey to the brink of Test cricket is a story of persistence. Unlike many of his peers, Doggett did not come through traditional talent pathways, instead emerging from Premier Cricket. His career gained significant momentum when he moved from Queensland to South Australia and was instrumental in steering his new state to a Sheffield Shield title last summer.
His form has continued into the new season, where he has already claimed a six-wicket haul and a five-wicket haul in his first two red-ball matches. Should he be selected, Doggett would become just the third Aboriginal player to represent Australia in Test cricket, a significant milestone for the sport.
Starc recalled first meeting Doggett on a tour to the UAE to play Pakistan in 2018. 'I remember that tour back in the UAE,' Starc said. 'Obviously, Brendan was a lot younger and rawer then but we knew what he was about. Since then he's made the change to South Australia, he's come in red-hot... he's probably a little bit more comfortable now, he's been around the group, so really excited if he gets his opportunity this week.'
Team Dynamics and Perth's Dramatic Build-Up
The final Australian training session was not without its drama, as nearby lightning forced a temporary halt to proceedings, adding to the anticipation surrounding the blockbuster series. With the bowling attack in flux, Starc revealed he was still unsure who would share the new ball with him, though Doggett is a clear option.
Meanwhile, the selection panel, chaired by George Bailey, has decisions to make in the batting order. The session saw all-rounders Cam Green and Beau Webster taking catches in the slips cordon, as the team weighs up whether to pick both all-rounders or specialist opener Jake Weatherald. The final XI will be keenly watched as Australia looks to assert its dominance on home soil.
