Mitchell Starc uses unique half-red, half-white ball to help Australian batters prepare for swing bowling

During one of Australia’s practice sessions before the much-awaited Border-Gavaskar Trophy 2024–25, Mitchell Starc grabbed attention by using a half-white, half-red ball. In addition to enhancing hand-eye coordination, this type of cricket ball is thought to provide incredible swing.

The white ball, which has the least amount of lateral movement of all the ball varieties used in cricket, is one of the few fast bowlers that Starc can swing. With a half-red, half-white cricket ball, it is clear that the Australian hitters are receiving excellent preparation against a player of Starc’s calibre in advance of the five-match Test series against India.

The Indian squad has reportedly found it difficult to handle the lateral movement during their match simulations in Perth, according to multiple reports. In order to take advantage of the Indian batsmen’ weakness, Australia may wish to build a pitch that helps the swing bowlers. However, given that the current Indian team features many bowlers who can perform well under pressure, this tactic could have unintended consequences. The reason why the Australian hitters are improving their skills against the moving ball could be due to this.

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