Mitchell Starc dethroned Marc Jansen to regain the No.1 spot in the ICC Test rankings

Australian fast bowling spearhead Mitchell Starc (Image: IANS) Australia’s pace leader Mitchell Starc climbed back to the top of the ICC Test bowling rankings, dethroning South Africa’s Marc Jansen after a prolific run with the ball.At the age of 36, Starc continues to highlight his value as one of the most formidable fast bowlers in the longest format, finishing as the leading wicket-taker in Australia’s recently concluded three-Test series against South Africa with 15 wickets.Although Australia lost the series 2–1, Starc’s individual performances were exceptional. The left-arm pacer produced a remarkable effort in the final Test, taking nine wickets, including an impressive 6/72 in the first innings.

Starc ends Jansen’s short reign; Harmer takes a big leap

Jansen moved up to No.1 in both the Test bowling and all-rounders rankings last week after a superb performance with bat and ball in the second Test. However, Starc’s performances in the series final moved the Australian back ahead of the South African.Meanwhile, South African spinner Simon Harmer was another big beneficiary of the latest ranking update. He also climbed nine places to seventh after producing a memorable performance in the third Test where he claimed his first 10-wicket haul and was named man of the match.

Australia lose the series despite Starc’s brilliance

South Africa clinched the three-match Test series 2-1 after beating Australia in the decisive third Test. The home side bounced back from 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 had the nerve to close out the contest. The series also saw Jansen prove to be a major force with both bat and ball, while Harmer’s match-winning 10-wicket haul proved decisive in the final encounter.