Australian fast bowler Mitchell Starc entered the record books on Thursday, becoming the most prolific left-arm paceman in the history of Test cricket.
The 35-year-old veteran surpassed the legendary Pakistan bowler Wasim Akram during the second Ashes Test at Brisbane’s Gabba.
Starc reached the milestone by dismissing England’s Harry Brook on the opening day of the day-night Test. The wicket marked his 415th in the longest format of the game, moving him one ahead of Wasim Akram’s tally of 414. Starc achieved this feat in his 102nd Test match, having made his debut on the same ground 14 years earlier.
Mitchell Starc passes Wasim Akram as the most prolific left-arm bowler in Test cricket history 🤩#Ashes | #MilestoneMoment | @nrmainsurance pic.twitter.com/gxzYjLGR2S
— cricket.com.au (@cricketcomau) December 4, 2025The record comes on the back of stellar recent form. In the first Ashes Test at Perth, Starc delivered a career-best bowling performance, taking 7 wickets for 58 runs in the first innings. This spell was instrumental in setting up the milestone, showcasing the pace and swing that have defined his career.
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 . 🙏🙏@mstarc56
— Wasim Akram (@wasimakramlive) December 4, 2025Widely regarded as one of the sport’s greatest bowlers, Wasim Akram secured his 414 wickets across 104 Test matches for Pakistan. Starc’s ascent past this benchmark solidifies his status as one of the modern era’s premier fast bowlers.
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With this achievement, Starc now sits 16th on the all-time list of Test wicket-takers. He is poised to move higher in the current match, with India’s Harbhajan Singh (417 wickets) and South Africa’s Shaun Pollock (421 wickets) within immediate reach.
