Mitchell Starc Breaks Wasim Akram’s Record in Test Cricket

By Harshit - Dec 04, 2025 05:30 PM
Last updated on Dec 04, 2025 05:30 PM

Mitchell Starc’s rise to the top of Test cricket’s bowling charts marks a defining moment in the sport’s modern era. His achievement of surpassing Wasim Akram’s long-standing tally of 414 wickets has sparked global admiration, reinforcing his status as one of the finest left-arm fast bowlers to ever play the game. This milestone not only highlights Starc’s longevity and precision but also celebrates his evolution from a fiery young quick to a complete match-winner across conditions.

Starc’s journey has been built on relentless pace, dramatic swing, and remarkable consistency in high-pressure moments. His ability to dismantle batting lineups with the new ball and reverse swing has made him Australia’s go-to strike bowler in every format. His recent performance at the Gabba, where he crossed the monumental 415-wicket mark, stands as a fitting chapter in his illustrious cricketing story.

The left-arm pacer’s accomplishment came during the Ashes—arguably the toughest arena for any fast bowler—further magnifying the significance of his record. With three crucial wickets in the pink-ball Test at Brisbane, Starc sealed his place in history, ending decades of dominance held by Wasim Akram, one of the greatest exponents of swing bowling the game has ever seen. The achievement has once again ignited discussions about Starc’s place among the all-time greats.

Starc Surpasses Wasim Akram: A Historic Milestone

Mitchell Starc officially became the most successful left-arm bowler in Test cricket after claiming his 415th wicket during the second Ashes Test. This wicket pushed him past Wasim Akram’s legendary tally of 414, a record many believed might stand for generations. Starc’s achievement reflects not only his skill but his ability to adapt to different formats, conditions, and high-pressure match situations throughout his career.

His historic moment came at the Gabba in Brisbane, where he produced a fiery spell with the pink ball. Starc dismissed Ben Duckett and Ollie Pope for ducks, before adding Harry Brook to his list, demonstrating once again why he remains one of the most lethal new-ball bowlers in world cricket. His pace, sharp movement, and accuracy showcased his mastery as a modern fast-bowling powerhouse.

The 415-wicket landmark is not just a personal record but a celebration of Starc’s dedication, training discipline, and resilience through injuries. Over the years, he has developed into one of Australia’s most complete fast bowlers, contributing with wickets, partnerships, and consistent breakthroughs when his team needed them most.

Record Comparison: Starc vs. Wasim Akram

The comparison between Mitchell Starc and Wasim Akram has long been a topic of debate among cricket fans. Akram, widely regarded as the 'Sultan of Swing', revolutionised left-arm fast bowling with his ability to seam and reverse swing the ball at fearsome speeds. Starc, meanwhile, has carved his own legacy through raw pace, toe-crushing yorkers, and clutch spells in decisive moments.

Starc has taken 415 wickets in 195 innings across 102 Tests, including 17 five-wicket hauls and three 10-wicket match performances. His best innings figures of 11/94 highlight his capacity for match-winning spells. Akram, on the other hand, reached 414 wickets from 181 innings in 104 Tests, claiming 25 five-wicket hauls and five 10-wicket matches—an incredible record from a different era, marked by different challenges and playing conditions.

Both bowlers have left an indelible mark on the game, and the numbers reflect two distinct but equally influential styles of fast bowling. Starc’s consistency and longevity have allowed him to reach the pinnacle, while Akram’s artistry continues to inspire generations of bowlers worldwide.

Top Left-Arm Pacers in Test History

The Test bowling charts for left-arm fast bowlers tell the story of rare bowling brilliance. Mitchell Starc now leads the list with 415 wickets, setting a new benchmark for future generations. Wasim Akram follows closely with 414 wickets, while Chaminda Vaas, Trent Boult, Mitchell Johnson, and Zaheer Khan complete an elite group known for their skill, accuracy, and game-changing spells.

This list is a testament to the unique challenges faced by left-arm pacers, who bring a different angle and set of variations compared to right-arm bowlers. From swing to seam movement and bounce, these bowlers have shaped some of the most iconic matches in cricketing history. Starc’s dominance at the top of this list reflects his unmatched ability to combine pace with precision.

Each of these bowlers has brought a distinct style to Test cricket. From Vaas’s control to Boult’s swing, Johnson’s aggression, and Zaheer’s sharp movement, the evolution of left-arm pace bowling has been a fascinating journey. Now, Starc stands as the leader of this distinguished group, setting an example for upcoming bowlers.

England’s Fightback: Root and Crawley Stabilize the Innings

While Starc’s record-breaking performance stole the spotlight, England’s batters posted a determined response during the second Ashes Test. After choosing to bat first, England found themselves struggling at 5/2, courtesy of Starc’s lethal opening spell. Ben Duckett and Ollie Pope fell early, leaving the visitors under immense pressure as the pink ball moved sharply under lights.

Zak Crawley stepped up, crafting a composed 76 that helped England rebuild their innings. His strokeplay against the new ball was calm and assertive, showcasing his improved temperament in challenging conditions. Joe Root followed with a steady half-century, keeping England in the contest and eyeing his maiden Test century on Australian soil.

By the end of the second session, England reached 196/4, showing resilience against Australia’s fiery pace attack. Their recovery ensured that the Ashes Test remained finely poised, adding another layer of excitement to a match already highlighted by Starc’s historic achievement.

The Legacy of Mitchell Starc

Mitchell Starc’s ascension to the top of the left-arm wicket tally symbolizes a career defined by pace, heart, and continuous improvement. His contribution to Australian cricket spans more than a decade, filled with unforgettable spells, Ashes heroics, World Cup triumphs, and leadership roles within the bowling unit. He remains Australia’s strike bowler in critical situations, capable of turning matches within a few overs.

Starc’s journey has been marked by challenges—injuries, form fluctuations, and the pressure of expectations. Yet he has continually risen stronger, showcasing exceptional mental toughness and resilience. His new-ball spells, late-innings yorkers, and partnership with fellow pacers have made Australia’s attack one of the most feared in world cricket.

With more years left in his career, Starc is poised to further extend his record and cement his place among the greatest fast bowlers of all time. His milestone at the Gabba is not just a statistic—it is a celebration of excellence, discipline, and the relentless pursuit of greatness.

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