Why Mitchell Starc Loved Bowling to Virat Kohli – Alyssa Healy’s Insight

Few cricketing rivalries have thrilled fans as much as the fierce battles between Virat Kohli and Mitchell Starc. The Indian batting maestro and the Australian pace ace have clashed in some of the most high-pressure matches over the years. Now, Alyssa Healy, Australian women’s team captain and Starc’s wife, has revealed why the left-arm speedster relished the challenge of bowling to Kohli.

Alyssa Healy’s Revelation on Starc’s Mindset

Speaking on the LiSTNR Sport podcast, Healy shared:

“Mitch always loved bowling to Virat because he saw it as the ultimate test. He knew if he could get Kohli out, he could trouble any batter in the world.”

This statement highlights the mutual respect between the two modern-day greats. Starc, known for his lethal yorkers and swing, often targeted Kohli’s strengths, turning their contests into must-watch spectacles.

Key Battles: Starc vs Kohli Over the Years

Some of their most memorable encounters include:

• 2015 World Cup Semifinal: Starc’s fiery spell troubled Kohli, setting the tone for Australia’s win.
• 2018-19 Border-Gavaskar Trophy: Kohli countered Starc’s pace with aggressive strokeplay in a thrilling duel.
• 2023 World Cup Final: Starc dismissed Kohli early, a crucial moment in Australia’s title victory.

Healy explained that Starc’s strategy against Kohli involved:

• Using angle variations from around the wicket.
• Mixing pace to disrupt Kohli’s rhythm.
• Targeting the stumps with late inswingers.

Why Kohli vs Starc Stands Out

Unlike other bowler-batter rivalries, this one had an extra edge because:

1. Kohli’s aggression met Starc’s hostility, creating explosive contests.
2. High-stakes matches amplified their battles, making them decisive moments.
3. Both players thrived under pressure, raising their game against each other.

Healy’s Take on the Rivalry’s Future

With Starc still active in international cricket and Kohli showing no signs of slowing down, Healy believes their battles will continue to entertain fans. She added:

“Even now, Mitch gets excited when he sees Kohli walk out to bat. It’s that competitive fire that makes these duels special.”

Final Thoughts

The Starc vs Kohli rivalry remains one of cricket’s most compelling matchups. Healy’s insights give fans a deeper appreciation of the mindset behind these high-intensity contests. As long as both players keep competing, their clashes will keep delivering unforgettable moments.

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