Might not have prioritised Test cricket, sacrificed some to spend more time with Alyssa Healy: Mitchell Starc

After a terrific win against South Africa in the first Test of the series, 32-year-old Mitchell Starc revealed that he has not prioritised Test cricket in the last few years but rather sacrificed some to spend more time with his wife Alyssa Healy.

The couple is often seen taking some time out of their busy schedule and cheering for one another in crucial matches. Healy, who was part of the Australian squad in the 2022 Women’s World Cup, scored a stunning century against England on the night of the finals and Starc sitting in the stands was thrilled by her performance. Similarly, the wicket-keeper batter has been witness to a lot of crucial moments of Starc’s career including the 2015 ODI World Cup.

Even in 2020, Starc left the South Africa tour before the final ODI to watch Healy play in the Women’s T20 World Cup. Now, when he was asked about his priorities in Test cricket, the Aussie quick denied any and mentioned the sacrifices he has made to be with his wife.

“I might have not prioritised it (Test cricket), I have sacrificed some time to spend more time with Alyssa,” said the Sydney-born cricketer according to India Today.

I am not sure if I have ever played a two-day Test: Starc

Australia’s first Test against South Africa at Gabba, Brisbane was nothing short of a controversial affair. The Aussies wrapped up the game on the second day after decimating South Africa’s batting order in both innings. The Aussies too faced extreme difficulty but eventually managed to defeat the Proteas by six wickets.

Many former cricketers including Virender Sehwag, and Michael Vaughan raised their voices after the Test match finished on day two itself. Starc, who picked up his 300th Test wicket in the match accelerated the discussion after revealing that he can’t recall if he ever played a Test match that lasted for less than two complete days.

He, however, gave credit to the bowlers and lauded Travis Head, who was adjudged the Player of the Match for his sensational knock of 92 runs in the first innings of the match. “I am not sure if I have ever played a two-day Test. It was very interesting to say the least,” Starc told the broadcaster after the match.

“I can believe it because it is two great bowling attacks going at each other. I think it is bowling attacks," Starc on finishing match on the second day. "I have always said it is best when there is a contest between bat and ball. (Travis) Head was the difference, you see the scorecard and find out that was the case,” he added.