Australian speedster Mitchell Starc scripted history on the opening day of the second Ashes Test in Brisbane, only to immediately deflect the glory towards the legend whose record he broke. Starc's devastating six-wicket haul at the Gabba propelled him past Pakistan's Wasim Akram to become the most successful left-arm fast bowler in Test cricket history.
A Record-Breaking Spell at the Gabba
The day-night Test witnessed a vintage display from the 35-year-old Starc. On a see-saw day where momentum constantly shifted, his fiery spell of 6 wickets for 71 runs in 19 overs kept Australia in the contest. This phenomenal effort took his career tally to 418 wickets in 102 Test matches, edging past Wasim Akram's iconic figure of 414 wickets from 104 Tests.
Despite the personal milestone achieved on December 4, 2025, Starc was quick to acknowledge that the true giant of left-arm pace bowling remains the Pakistani great. Visibly tired at the end of an absorbing day's play, Starc admitted he would process the record later, but his reverence for Akram was immediate and unequivocal.
Starc's Humble Tribute to 'The Pinnacle'
In a conversation with former England captain Michael Vaughan for the broadcasters right after stumps, Starc made his feelings clear. "Wasim's still the pinnacle for left-armers, best ever with the ball. I feel he is still better," Starc stated.
He later reinforced this sentiment in the post-day press conference, joking that he would not be anointing himself the 'GOAT' (Greatest Of All Time). "Wasim's still a far better bowler than I am as far as I'm concerned," Starc said. "He's still the pinnacle of left-armers and certainly right up there with the greatest bowlers to ever play the game. It's nice to be spoken up around that, I'll just try to keep churning a few out."
Wasim Akram's Gracious Congratulations
The sportsmanship extended from the field to social media, where Wasim Akram himself celebrated Starc's achievement. The Sultan of Swing took to X (formerly Twitter) to pen a heartfelt message for the Australian.
"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," Akram wrote.
While Starc's heroics had Australia in control for large parts of Day 1, England fought back valiantly towards the end. A century from captain Joe Root and a blistering last-wicket stand of 61 runs between Root and Jofra Archer ensured the visitors finished the day with a slight advantage, setting up a tantalising continuation of the Ashes battle.
