Mitchell Starc joked that he "feels old" as he prepares to play his 100th Test for Australia in their final match of the series against the West Indies.
Australia have already clinched the series by winning the first two Tests, claiming a 159-run victory in the first before triumphing by 133 runs in the second.
Starc, who made his debut 14 years ago, will become just the second Australian fast bowler after Glenn McGrath to bring up a century of Tests.
In his first 99 matches across the longest format, he has taken 395 wickets in 190 innings. He has had 15 five-wicket hauls during that time and has managed a 10-for twice.
Starc has already taken eight wickets in this series against the West Indies, and if he can get five in the last Test, which begins on Saturday, he will become just the second Australian paceman to take 400, after McGrath.
"It makes me feel old having 99 games under the belt," Starc told cricket.com.au when asked about the landmark.
"I never thought I'd play this many Tests. There's been a fair bit of stubbornness, maybe even some stupidity at times.
"But as long as I'm playing my role and contributing, no matter how the body feels, that's what matters most."
Starc struggled with injuries earlier in his career, but has remained a cornerstone of Australia's attack, choosing his national duty over the option of playing T20.
He has not missed a Test match for Australia since early 2023, and Starc noted how he has worked to keep himself available for the national side.
"I've tried to look after my body and find ways through pain barriers to make an impact for the team," Starc said.
"I've been a player that's been injured and left the team a man down before - I never wanted to do that again.
"So, finding ways when things weren't going well, or if I was carrying something, to still be able to push through and finish games and contribute - that's been important.
"But I've also had a lot of support along the way - from trainers, physios, and teammates who are also my best mates - they've all played a part in helping me keep going."
Australia have won four of their five men's Tests away from home in 2025 (L1); the last time they recorded more wins on the road in the format in a calendar year was in 2006 (W5).
And Australia have won three of their last four Test matches against West Indies at Sabina Park (L1), including each of their last two after going winless across their five meetings prior (D3 L2).
