Left-arm paceman Mitchell Starc hopes some hot form for NSW will help him break back into Australia’s one-day squad in time for the tri-series finals.
After taking just one wicket in his past three one-day internationals, Starc was replaced by Ryan Harris in Australia’s 13-man squad for Friday’s clash with Sri Lanka and Sunday’s match against India.
The 22-year-old took the relegation in his stride, snaring 4-39 in NSW’s four-wicket one-day win over Western Australia on Wednesday to prove he was ready for an immediate recall.
Starc will next suit up for NSW in their March 1-4 Sheffield Shield clash with Queensland at the SCG.
But with the first final of the tri-series to be played in Brisbane on March 4, Starc knows luck has to go his way if he is to force his way back into Australia’s squad in time.
“If I can keep taking wickets and the ball keeps coming out all right, then anything can happen,” said Starc, who has played three Tests and seven ODIs.
“I’ll be ready to go if called upon.
“I’ve just got to keep learning … and if I can keep contributing to wins for NSW, that’s the main thing.
“If I start focusing on trying to get back into the team, it’s not going to do me any good.
“I’m happy with how the ball’s coming out and the body’s feeling good.”
NSW were dominant against WA at the WACA, dismissing the home side for 151 before reaching the victory target with 14.1 overs to spare.
WA batsman Shaun Marsh made just five, but said he enjoyed captaining the side in the absence of Marcus North, who will miss the rest of the summer with a finger injury.
“It was something I always dreamed about to captain WA,” Marsh said.
“It was a huge thrill to be out there and it would have been nice if I had performed a bit better for the boys.
“But I enjoyed it and hopefully one day down the track I’ll do it again.”
Warriors vice-captain Adam Voges, who was rested from Wednesday’s clash with a shoulder injury, is expected to take over the captaincy in the March 1-4 Sheffield Shield clash with Victoria at the WACA.
