Mitchell Starc names Virat Kohli as the toughest batter he’s ever bowled to
Mitchell Starc has faced almost every big name in world cricket, but the Australian speedster has now revealed the one batter who has pushed him to the limit throughout his long career. And the name at the top is none other than the Indian batting superstar Virat Kohli.
The 35-year-old pacer is still one of the most threatening fast bowlers in the world. He continues to produce match-winning spells for Australia and recently delivered the best bowling performance of his career in the opening Test of the ongoing Ashes 2025-26.
Mitchell Starc showers rich praise on Virat Kohli
Even with more than a decade of international cricket behind him, Starc’s hunger and pace have not faded. Over the years, he has bowled to world-class players like Rohit Sharma, Kane Williamson, Joe Root, and many other modern-day greats. But in his personal list, none of them came close to the challenge that Virat Kohli presented to him.
Kohli and Starc have been part of some of the most intense battles on the 22 yards. They have gone head-to-head in India vs Australia clashes across the formats, where each ball felt like a story of its own. Their rivalry has been an enthralling one since their early days.
Mitchell Starc names Virat Kohli as the toughest batter of his career
At every phase, Kohli has managed to push Starc harder than anyone else. They have shared the Royal Challengers Bengaluru (RCB) dressing room in the IPL, and at that time, the Australian star got to know the Indian batting icon closely, making their relationship interesting.
Not just Kohli, Starc also shared the RCB dressing room with the South African legend AB de Villiers. He also played with and against Steve Smith. Despite getting the chance to face many world-class batters, Kohli still stands out in his mind. Even in peak form, the Australian fast bowler has admitted that Kohli has been the batter who pushed him the hardest.
Mitchell Starc said on Kookaburra Cricket: “Virat Kohli is the No. 1 batter I’ve played against. The way he dominates the game, it was amazing to have that relationship with him during RCB.” When he was asked to pick the best player he played with, Starc said, “Kohli, Steve Smith, and AB de Villiers.”
Mitchell Starc vs Virat Kohli Stats
Meanwhile, Starc and Kohli have shared one of cricket’s most exciting rivalries. Their battles are all about skill, with bat and ball clashing in some of the sport’s most memorable moments. In tests, Kohli faced 477 deliveries and scored 278 runs at an average of 46.3, while Starc dismissed him six times.
In the ODI cricket, the Australian fast bowler has scored 162 runs at an impressive average of 81 against Starc. In T20Is, Kohli has been unbeaten against Starc, scoring 15 runs. Additionally, the right-handed batter has scored 91 runs without losing his wicket to Starc in nine T20s.
The Australian fast bowler scalped 36 wickets in 26 matches at an average of 20.38 and an economy rate of 7.17.
Colts’ Daniel Jones Will Play Through Fibula Injury on Sunday Against Texans – Colts Relying on Veteran Leadership in Crucial Week 13 Clash
“With a fibula injury still lingering, Daniel Jones is ready to lead the Colts as they face the Texans in a must-win game for the AFC South division lead.”
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Jones' injury, which had been a lingering issue, will no longer define the narrative of his performance. While his fibula remains a subplot, his availability resets the week, energizing the Colts and giving Steichen a stable presence in the pocket. As the Colts fight for the AFC South lead, Jones' leadership is more crucial than ever.
Jones may not have been perfect, but he has proven to be the steadying force the offense needs. His ability to manage the game and make quick, decisive throws helps maintain the rhythm of an offense that thrives on precision and efficiency. At this critical point in the season, Jones provides much-needed continuity, ensuring that the Colts do not become complacent despite holding the division lead.
The Houston Texans will present a unique challenge. Known for their ability to disguise coverages and force mistakes, the Texans can quickly shift momentum with a single misstep. Steichen is well aware of this, and he will lean on Jones’ experience to keep the Colts offense on track through simple, sharp possessions. The plan is straightforward: protect the pocket, stay efficient, and let Jones guide the pace.
The Colts’ success on Sunday will depend on their ability to execute early and establish rhythm—something Jones has excelled at throughout his career. The first drive will be crucial, as will the tempo they set for the game. If Jones can play through pain and deliver a strong performance, the Colts’ chances of climbing the standings and holding onto the AFC South lead will grow significantly.
With Week 13 carrying enormous weight for playoff contenders, the question now turns to fans: If Daniel Jones can lead the Colts through pain, just how high can they climb down the stretch?
