Australian fast bowler Mitchell Starc made history during the third Test against the West Indies in Jamaica on July 15, 2025. He achieved a remarkable five-wicket haul in just 15 balls, setting the record for the fastest five-wicket haul in Test cricket, and helped dismiss the West Indies for just 27 runs, marking it as the second-lowest Test total ever. Additionally, Starc crossed the milestone of 400 Test wickets.
Mitchell Starc had an impressive performance in his 100th Test match, delivering a standout performance during the West Indies’ chase of 204 runs. In his first over, he took three wickets without conceding any runs. Remarkably, by his 15th delivery, he had achieved five wickets. This feat broke the previous record of 19 balls held by Ernie Toshack (who accomplished it in 1947 against India), as well as Stuart Broad and Scott Boland.
He finished with figures of 6 for 9, marking his 15th five-wicket haul in Test matches. Starc now has a total of 402 wickets, joining Shane Warne, Glenn McGrath, and Nathan Lyon as the only Australians with more than 400 wickets. The West Indies collapsed early, reaching just 7 for 5. Among Starc’s victims were key batters, and he clean-bowled Jayden Seales to secure his sixth wicket.
Imposing, relentless and ever-present with ball in hand 😤
Mitchell Starc becomes the fourth Australian to reach 400 Test wickets thanks to another scintillating spell 🔥#WIvAUS 📲 https://t.co/7an5FwsUdF#WTC27 pic.twitter.com/yYVbvuyrux
— ICC (@ICC) July 14, 2025Teammate Scott Boland added drama with a hat-trick. He dismissed Justin Greaves, Shamar Joseph, and Jomel Warrican in three balls. His figures: 3/2.
West Indies lasted 14.3 overs. Seven players scored ducks. Their 27 runs rank as the second-lowest Test innings. New Zealand holds the record at 26 (vs England, 1955). Australia won by 176 runs, sweeping the series.
World Fastest Five-Wicket Hauls
Here’s a table of the quickest five-wicket hauls in Test cricket:
| Bowler | Balls | Opponent | Year | Figures |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Mitchell Starc | 15 | West Indies | 2025 | 6/9 |
| Ernie Toshack | 19 | India | 1947 | 5/2 |
| Stuart Broad | 19 | Australia | 2015 | 8/15 |
| Scott Boland | 19 | England | 2021 | 6/7 |
Starc’s milestone boosts Australia’s pace attack. It came in a day-night Test with the pink ball, adding a challenge. 2 His spell sealed the match before tea. In summary, Starc’s world record highlights his skill. It cements his legacy in Test cricket.
