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Australia’s pace spearhead Mitchell Starc has climbed back to the summit of the ICC Test bowling rankings, dethroning South Africa’s Marco Jansen following a prolific series with the ball.At 36, Starc continues to underline his value as one of the most formidable fast bowlers in the longest format, having finished as the leading wicket-taker in Australia’s recently concluded three-Test series against South Africa with 15 wickets.Despite Australia losing the series 2-1, Starc’s individual performances proved exceptional. The left-arm pacer produced a remarkable effort in the final Test, claiming nine wickets, including an impressive 6/72 in the first innings.
Starc ends Jansen’s brief reign; Harmer makes big jump
Jansen had moved to the No.1 position in both the Test bowling and all-rounder rankings just last week following an outstanding performance with bat and ball in the second Test. However, Starc’s exploits in the series finale have pushed the Australian back ahead of the South African.Meanwhile, South Africa spinner Simon Harmer was another major beneficiary of the latest rankings update. The off-spinner climbed nine places to seventh after producing a memorable performance in the third Test, where he claimed his maiden 10-wicket match haul and was named Player of the Match.
Australia lose series despite Starc’s brilliance
South Africa clinched the three-match Test series 2-1 after defeating Australia in the deciding third Test. The hosts bounced back from their defeat in the opening match to win the next two Tests and secure a memorable series triumph.While Starc’s nine-wicket performance in the final Test kept Australia in contention, South Africa held their nerve to seal the contest. The series also saw Jansen emerge as a major force with both bat and ball, while Harmer’s match-winning 10-wicket haul proved decisive in the final encounter.
