The Australian media has said that the selection of fast bowler Mitchell Starc for the final Ashes Test at The Oval should be a 'no-brainer' given that Australia's troubles are further complicated by all-rounder Shane Watson's groin injury.
According to News.com.au, the sustained brilliance of Ryan Harris in the fourth Test has contrasted with the struggle of his fellow fast bowlers at Chester-le-Street as he took most of the wickets in the second innings of England, which amassed a lead of 298 on the fourth day.
The report further said that Peter Siddle and Jackson Bird took only three wickets combined in the first innings and failed to take any wicket between them in the second innings.
Therefore, the report suggested that the first selection decision should be the reinstatement of Starc given that Watson's injury prevents him from bowling, adding that even though Starc might spray the new ball at times, he also bowls wicket-taking deliveries in his early spells, which Bird has struggled to do in tour matches and this Test.
According to the report, it is a myth that Starc leaks runs as his economy rate in this series of 2.71 runs per over is better than any of the other four fast bowlers, adding that an added advantage is that he can also bat, which the report said, is something Australia has not managed to do well for much of this year.
The report further said that Starc has the highest score of 66 not out in the Ashes series, with his average of 26 almost good or even better than most of Australia's batsmen on tour, adding that a significant fact is that Starc has taken eight wickets in his two Tests.