Mitchell Starc smashes Wasim Akram’s all-time record

By Alam Zeb Safi
LAHORE: Australia’s Mitchell Starc added another milestone to an already distinguished career on Thursday, becoming the most prolific left-arm fast bowler in Test history after a searing opening burst in the second Ashes Test.
The 35-year-old overtook Pakistan great Wasim Akram when he claimed his 415th wicket during the day-night match against England, eclipsing a record that had stood for nearly two decades.
Starc reached the mark in his 102nd Test, two matches fewer than Akram, underlining both his longevity and continuing impact in the longest format.
Starc, widely regarded as one of the most dangerous new-ball bowlers of his era, made an immediate impression under lights at Adelaide Oval. He struck in his first over, trapping Ben Duckett for a duck, before removing Ollie Pope—also without scoring—to draw level with Akram.
His landmark moment arrived in his third spell, breaking a developing 54-run stand by dismissing Harry Brook to lift the hosts at a crucial juncture.
The left-armer’s rise to the top of the list reflects not just his ability to swing the pink ball at high pace but also his sustained presence in Australia’s attack across more than a decade. Starc has been particularly lethal in day-night Tests where his blend of speed, movement and accuracy has repeatedly put visiting teams under pressure.
Australia, seeking to strengthen their grip on the Ashes after winning the series opener, rode Starc’s early breakthroughs to maintain control of the contest. His latest achievement adds to a growing list of records accumulated since his debut in 2011 and reinforces his status among the premier fast bowlers of the modern game.

Most Test wickets by left-arm fast bowlers:

Mitchell Starc (Australia): 415

Wasim Akram (Pakistan): 414

Chaminda Vaas (Sri Lanka): 355

Trent Boult (New Zealand): 317

Zaheer Khan (India): 313