Mitchell Starc continues to redefine the value of lower-order runs in Test cricket. With his latest half-century in the third Ashes Test, the Australian fast bowler has moved clear at the top of a unique all-time list.
Starc now has 10 scores of 50 or more while batting at No.9 or lower, the most by any player in Test history. He sits ahead of two former bowling all-rounders who were long considered the benchmark for lower-order contributions—England’s Stuart Broad and New Zealand’s Daniel Vettori, both of whom finished their careers with six such scores.
The milestone further highlights Starc’s ability to contribute far beyond his primary role with the ball. Time and again, he has frustrated opposition attacks, added crucial partnerships, and shifted momentum from the tail—something that was once again evident during Australia’s first innings at the Adelaide Oval.
In a format where teams often expect little resistance from the lower order, Starc’s consistency with the bat has turned him into one of the most impactful No.9-and-below batters the game has seen, cementing his place in Test cricket history.
