BRISBANE: Australia’s senior fast bowler Mitchell Starc showed great humility after overtaking Wasim Akram’s long-held record for the most Test wickets by a left-arm fast bowler during Day 1 of the second Ashes Test at The Gabba on Thursday.
Starc delivered a fiery spell under lights, removing Ben Duckett, Ollie Pope, and Harry Brook, which pushed him past Akram’s tally of 414 wickets. With his latest haul, Starc now sits atop the list with 418 wickets in 102 Tests*, becoming the most successful left-arm fast bowler in the history of Test cricket.
Most Wickets by Left-Arm Fast Bowlers in Test Cricket
- Mitchell Starc (AUS): 418 in 102*
- Wasim Akram (PAK): 414 in 104
- Chaminda Vaas (SL): 355 in 111
- Trent Boult (NZ): 317 in 78
- Mitchell Johnson (AUS): 313 in 73
The 35-year-old wasn’t finished yet—he added three more wickets later in the innings to wrap up an outstanding performance of 6/71 in 19 overs, even as Joe Root’s drought-breaking century lifted England to 325/9 by stumps.
“He’s Still Better” — Starc Praises Akram After Breaking Record
Speaking to former England captain Michael Vaughan after the day’s play, Starc downplayed his own milestone and hailed Akram as the gold standard of left-arm fast bowling.
“Wasim is still the pinnacle of left-armers and sits right up there with the best-ever with the ball. So yeah, I think he’s still better,” Starc said.
Akram Congratulates Starc on Historic Achievement
Wasim Akram, widely considered one of the greatest fast bowlers in cricket history, was quick to congratulate Starc and praised his dedication.
Akram wrote on social media:
“Super Starc! Proud of you, mate. Your incredible hard work sets you apart… I am pleased to pass this on to you. Keep soaring to new heights in your stellar career.”
Starc’s historic feat marks a landmark moment not only for Australia but for the legacy of left-arm fast bowling in world cricket.
