Australian pace spearhead Mitchell Starc etched his name into cricketing history as he surpassed Pakistan legend Wasim Akram to become the highest wicket-taking left-arm fast bowler in Test cricket.
Starc achieved the milestone during the second Ashes Test at the Gabba, Triggering an outpouring of admiration from the very man whose record he toppled.
Starc Surpasses Akram’s Longstanding Record
Starc claimed his 418th Test wicket when he dismissed Harry Brook during the second session on Day 1 of the day-night Test against England. The landmark wicket lifted him past Wasim Akram’s 414-wicket tally — a record that stood firm for nearly two decades.
The Australian pacer hit full rhythm under the lights at the Gabba, removing Ben Duckett and Ollie Pope earlier in a fiery new-ball spell. In a match that showcased his lethal best, Starc dismantled England’s batting lineup with pace, swing, and relentless accuracy.
He went on to complete a brilliant six-wicket haul (6/71 in 19 overs) — his 18th five-wicket haul in Test cricket and second of the ongoing Ashes series.
Wasim Akram’s Heartfelt Tribute
Moments after the record fell, Wasim Akram took to X (formerly Twitter) to congratulate Starc with a warm and gracious message:
“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. I am pleased to give this to you! Keep soaring to new heights in your stellar career.”
Akram, who remains one of cricket’s all-time greatest bowlers, held the record with 414 wickets in 104 Tests, averaging 23.62. His acknowledgment of Starc’s achievement added a touch of class to the historic moment.
Starc’s Dominance in Pink-Ball Tests Continues
The Gabba Test further cemented Starc’s reputation as the most dangerous bowler in day-night Test cricket. His mastery with the pink ball once again proved decisive as he repeatedly troubled England’s top and middle order.
Despite Joe Root’s resilient maiden Test ton in Australia guiding England to 325 for nine at stumps. Starc’s spell stood out as the highlight of the day.
Most Wickets by Left-Arm Seamers in Test Cricket
418 – Mitchell Starc
414 – Wasim Akram
355 – Chaminda Vaas
317 – Trent Boult
311 – Zaheer Khan
A Milestone That Signals an Era of Dominance
Having already taken 10 wickets in the series opener in Perth. Where he earned Player of the Match honours — Starc’s record-breaking exploits underscore a phase of exceptional form. With the Ashes still underway and Starc firing on all cylinders, he appears poised to widen the gap between himself and every other left-arm pacer in Test history.
A generational bowler, Starc’s combination of raw pace, late swing. And big-match temperament has now been immortalised with a record that may stand for years to come.
