Mitchell Starc's bruised heel has put him out of action for the Boxing Day Test, but he is still able to launch verbal 'bouncers' at England. Starc had opposite number James Anderson in his sights as he reflected on his own injury-enforced absence and then backed replacement Jackson Bird to make England's all-time leading wicket-taker eat his words. Anderson's observations — that Australia's pace resources lack depth — came with England 3-0 down and already beaten in this Ashes series, thanks in part to a home attack led by Starc.

Mitchell Starc, who will miss the Boxing Day Test manages a smile yesterday. Pic/Getty Images