Australian fast bowler Mitchell Starc has officially carved his name into cricket’s record books, surpassing the legendary Wasim Akram to become the most successful left-arm fast bowler in Test cricket. The landmark moment arrived at the Gabba on Day 1 of the second Ashes Test when Starc dismissed England’s Harry Brook, taking his tally past Akram’s iconic 414-wicket milestone.
Mitchell Starc Sets New Benchmark in Test Cricket
The achievement is historic for multiple reasons. Fourteen years after making his Test debut at the Gabba, Starc returned to the same venue to eclipse a bowler widely regarded as the most complete left-arm pacer in the sport’s history.
- Starc’s total wickets at milestone: 415 (surpassing Akram’s 414)
- Tests taken: Starc in his 102nd Test, compared to Akram’s 104
- Current all-time wicket-takers list position: 16th
- Next bowlers in sight: Harbhajan Singh (417) and Shaun Pollock (421), with Richard Hadlee (431) further ahead
Starc’s rise has been fuelled by strong recent form, including a match-winning 7/58 in Perth last week, accelerating his movement up the rankings.
Historic Moment Under the Gabba Lights
Mitchell Starc’s Milestone at His Debut Venue
There was poetic symmetry in Starc breaking the record at the same ground where his Test journey began. The 35-year-old spearhead delivered the breakthrough under pink-ball conditions, dismissing Harry Brook to etch his name in cricket history.
The setting added emotional depth to the achievement, as both teams wore black armbands and observed a moment of silence earlier in the day to honour former England batter Robin Smith, who passed away on December 1.
Mitchell Starc Powers Australia to a Dream Start
Early Blows Against England in Ashes Test
Starc’s record-setting day unfolded alongside a dramatic Ashes battle. The left-arm pacer gave Australia the perfect start, reducing England to 5/2 within the first three overs of the Test.
- Ben Duckett departed for a golden duck, edging a full swinging Starc delivery to first slip.
- Ollie Pope fell in the next over, chopping on as Australia tightened their grip early.
The pink ball moved sharply under lights, and Starc used the conditions expertly to put immediate pressure on the visitors.
England Revives Through Crawley and Root
Although they faced initial challenges, England demonstrated determination. Zak Crawley and Joe Root stabilized the innings, leading their side to a score of 98/2 at tea. The duo exhibited composure, enduring challenging spells as the ball lost its early gloss.
Root also benefited from a missed opportunity when Steve Smith dropped a diving chance, allowing England’s recovery to continue.
Mitchell Starc’s Record in Perspective
Why Is Starc’s Milestone Historic?
- He has now taken more Test wickets than any left-arm fast bowler in cricket history.
- He surpassed an all-time great, Wasim Akram, who held the record for decades.
- Starc reached the mark faster, achieving it in 102 Tests.
- The milestone came at the Gabba, where he made his Test debut 14 years ago.
- His performance contributed to a commanding opening session for Australia in a crucial Ashes Test.