Starc backs young ODI quicks to step up

Mitchell Starc has backed Australia's next generation of pacemen to step up as the nation's pace depth is tested over the next few months.

Starc, Mitchell Johnson and Pat Cummins were all part of Australia's 15-man squad that won the ODI World Cup last year.

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The pace trio will be absent from the upcoming five-match ODI series involving India, while they will also be sorely missed at the T20 World Cup that starts in March.

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Young quicks Scott Boland and Joel Paris are set to make their ODI debuts next week, while South Australian right-armer Kane Richardson has been recalled.

"They've been bowling really well in state cricket for a number of years now and it's a huge opportunity to get their foot in the door," Starc said.

"It's a chance for them to try to cement a spot with a few injuries and a bit of a changing time in the bowling stocks."

The KFC Big Bash League is serving as somewhat of a selection trial for the T20 World Cup.

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Starc has spent plenty of time on the couch recently because of his foot injury, and the 25-year-old has been watching plenty of BBL matches.

The left-armer noted there were plenty of positive signs in the Big Bash, as national selectors mull their plans for the upcoming T20 tournament in India.

"The Big Bash has been fantastic," he said. "We've seen some of the young guys like Joel (Paris) come through and bowl really well.

"Kane Richardson has bowled really well at the death. I'm excited to see what he's going to bring to ODI cricket on his return.

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"Jason Behrendorff has come back from injury, started really well in the Big Bash.

"There's a few guys around that level at the moment and will do a great job for Australia in the next few months."

Starc suggested he would be no automatic selection once fully fit.

"I don't think you can ever say you've cemented a spot 100 per cent," he said.

"I assume I'm going to have to work my butt off when I'm back to bowling to try and get my spot back."