Why are Starc and Bumrah Struggling in the India vs. Australia ODI Series?

India's domination over Australia in the recent One Day International (ODI) series is a testament to the skills and adaptability of batsmen against some of the best bowlers in the world. Specifically, the performances of bowlers like James Pattinson (Starc) and Jasprit Bumrah have caught the eye, often struggling to make an impact. This article delves into the reasons behind this phenomenon, attributing their struggles to several key factors, including the pitch conditions, their personal rhythms, and the pace advantages enjoyed by batsmen.

The Role of the SCG Pitch: Flatness and Scoring Rates

One of the main reasons behind the struggles of Starc and Bumrah is the surface of the wickets at the Sydney Cricket Ground (SCG). This pitch is known for its flatness, which presents challenges for spinners and seam bowlers unprecedented in recent years. The flatness of the pitch combined with an ODI scoring rate ranking third in the world means that batsmen have a field day, extracting runs without much resistance. For bowlers, extracting any meaningful movement off such a flat surface is next to impossible. Consequently, the traditional styles of bowling, characterized by seam movement and spin, are becoming increasingly ineffective.

Theelms Out of Rhythm: Bumrah and Starc's Struggles

Another contributing factor to their struggles is the absence of a consistent rhythm for both bowlers. Jasprit Bumrah had a stellar performance during the Indian Premier League (IPL), but he has yet to find the flow and timing necessary for ODI cricket. Similarly, Pat Cummins' compatriot Pat Cummins (Starc) struggles with the same issue. This lack of rhythm has directly translated into inconsistent line and length, making it difficult for them to restrict the scoring. Unlike his skills on the field, their ability to maintain a controlled and sustained performance seems to be off-kilter, leading to a series of embarrassing no-balls and overthrows.

Pace Disadvantage: Batsmen's Ease and Bowlers' Economy

The pace at which these bowlers operate gives batsmen a distinct advantage. Both Starc and Bumrah bowl at speeds ranging between 145-150 kmph, which significantly eases the task for batsmen. The delivery speed is so fast that batsmen have barely any time to adjust their shots, leading to more run-outs. Even bowlers like Mark Stonis and Glenn Maxwell have managed to limit the damage due to the perceptible speed. Moreover, because batsmen can time their shots more easily with faster balls, the use of slower deliveries becomes less effective. This has forced Starc and Bumrah to adopt a more probing and economical approach, rather than the power and control that they are known for.

A Path to Recovery: Finding the Mojo Soon

Despite the challenges, the performances of Starc and Bumrah have always been exceptional. Their skills and experience suggest that they will soon adapt to the conditions and find their groove. The key will be for them to rediscover a more consistent rhythm and perhaps vary their pace in a way that keeps batsmen guessing. Additionally, a more aggressive approach to bowling may help in controlling the scoring ratios. As the series progresses, we can expect to see these adjustments, leading to more rewarding attempts by these experienced players.

Notably, any changes in their strategies will be closely watched by fans and analysts, eager to see how these talented bowlers can overcome these current obstacles and contribute to their teams' success in future ODIs.

Thank you for reading, and we look forward to more thrilling matches to come!