Mitchell Starc expects tough conditions and rain during Australia tour of South Africa

Australia fast bowler Mitchell Starc expects rain, high humidity, and unusual early-season weather to create unpredictable pitches during the upcoming cricket series in South Africa. Australia will play a three-match one-day series starting on Thursday, followed by a three-Test series next month. This marks Australia's first Test tour of South Africa in eight years.

What to Expect

Because the matches are scheduled for October, when rain often affects parts of South Africa, Starc noted that the weather is not typical for this time of year. Recent wet weather could change the pitch surfaces, moving away from the dry conditions that usually help bowlers get reverse swing. Starc told reporters on Tuesday that the situation brings an element of the unknown for both teams, and players will simply need to adapt.

Team Updates

Meanwhile, Starc praised fast bowler Nathan Ellis for his strong performance during Australia's one-day series in Zimbabwe. Ellis stepped up while senior quicks like Starc, Pat Cummins, and Josh Hazlewood were rested, and he is now pushing for a regular spot in the one-day squad. The first Test of the series is set to begin in Durban on October 9.