Australia pacer Mitchell Starc scripted massive record on Thursday and in the process he surpassed legendary pacer Wasim Akram. Starc now has the most number of wickets in Test among left-arm pacers. He achieved the feat on Day 1 of the second Ashes Test against England in Brisbane.
By the time Stumps were called, Starc had registered six scalps in the 19 overs he bowled during the day. His victims include Harry Brook, Ben Duckett, Ollie Pope, Will Jacks, Gus Atkinson, and Brydon Carse.
Starc now has 418 wickets in 102 matches, which include 18 five-wicket hauls and three 10-wicket hauls. Akram, who held on the record until Starc broke, has 414 wickets in 104 games.
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Starc had started the Ashes 2025-26 with a bang as he picked 7 wickets in England's first innings and followed up with 3 in the second in the previous encounter in Perth, which Australia won by eight wickets.
Speaking after the end of the day's play, Starc said: "I will reflect on it later. Wasim (Akram) is still the pinnacle left-armer, I think he is still better."
Following the accomplishment, Starc was also congratulated by the Pakistan icon. "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." he posted on X.
Meanwhile, the day also belonged to England's premier batter Joe Root, who notched his maiden Test ton on Australian soil. Root ended his century drought in his 30th innings Down Under, which was also his 40th century in the format. He is currently the second highest run-scorer in Tests after India legend Sachin Tendulkar.
