Australian fast bowler Mitchell Starc etched his name into cricketing history by surpassing Pakistan legend Wasim Akram to become the highest wicket-taking left-arm fast bowler in Test cricket. The milestone came during the second Ashes Test against England at the Gabba, where Starc delivered yet another standout performance under lights.
Starc overtook Akram’s tally in the second session on Day 1 of the pink-ball Test when he dismissed Harry Brook, claiming his 418th Test wicket. Earlier in the innings, he had already dismantled England’s top order by removing Ben Duckett and Ollie Pope in a fiery opening burst. The historic feat marked a dominant display from the Australian spearhead, who has long been considered one of the most lethal bowlers in day-night Test cricket.
With this achievement, the 34-year-old now has 418 wickets in 102 matches at an impressive average of 26.43. His performance at the Gabba also featured his 18th five-wicket haul in Test cricket. Starc dismissed Duckett, Pope, Brook, Will Jacks, Gus Atkinson, and Brydon Carse — completing his second five-for of the ongoing Ashes series.
At stumps on Day 1, England were 325 for nine, largely held together by Joe Root’s maiden Test century on Australian soil. Starc ended the day with standout figures of 6 for 71 in 19 overs.
Wasim Akram, who held the record with 414 wickets in 104 Tests at 23.62, was quick to applaud Starc’s achievement. In a heartfelt message on X, the former Pakistan captain wrote:
“Super Starc! Proud of you, mate. Your incredible hard work sets you apart, and it was only a matter of time before you crossed my tally of wickets. I am pleased to give this to you! Go well, and keep soaring to new heights in your stellar career.”
Most Test Wickets by Left-Arm Seamers
- 418 – Mitchell Starc
- 414 – Wasim Akram
- 355 – Chaminda Vaas
- 317 – Trent Boult
- 311 – Zaheer Khan
Starc’s record-breaking moment comes amid a red-hot stretch of form. After picking up 10 wickets in the series opener in Perth, where he won Player of the Match honours, he has continued to dominate England’s batting lineup. His blend of pace, swing, and relentless accuracy has solidified his status as a match-winner — and now, the most successful left-arm seamer in Test history.
With the Ashes series still wide open and Starc bowling at his peak, his newly set record looks poised to only grow further in the coming months.