Injury concerns for Australia, Mitchell Starc struggling with calf niggle

What's the story?

Australia's pace spearhead Mitchell Starc is struggling with a calf problem that could possibly rule him out of the third Test against South Africa.

"Sometimes the bowlers just work their way into the games a little bit differently. His preparation might be a little bit different going into this game," opening batsman Cameron Bancroft said about Starc.

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The 28-year-old Starc was in full flow in the opening Test of the series, picking up a total of nine wickets in the opening game at Durban. He returned with dismal figures in the subsequent game, getting only two wickets.

The heart of the matter

Starc has had a history of injuries: recently, he had missed out on the Boxing Day Test during the Ashes owing to a foot injury.

"I think in the past, he's bowled a couple of days out (from the Test) and had that third day as a bit of a rest day. Hopefully, he'll bowl on Tuesday, I'm sure he'll be ok", Bancroft added.

Although Starc's injury is a huge cause of concern for Australia, they will be happy with the progress made by Mitchell Marsh, who was seen bowling in the nets.

What's next?

If Starc fails to recover in time, Australia will have to turn towards one of Chadd Sayers or Jhye Richardson to fill in for their trump card.

Author's take

Starc getting injured is no news, there have been several occurrences in the past when Starc has broken down before the game, and has had to let go of important clashes due to his brittle body.

He parted ways with the Royal Challengers Bangalore and did not take part in the IPL last year, but if the injury flares up, the Kolkata Knight Riders, his new franchise, will be having a huge problem to deal with.