Mitchell Starc has added another remarkable chapter to his illustrious career, becoming the leading wicket-taker among left-arm bowlers in Test cricket history. The Australian fast bowler overtook Sri Lankan spin legend Rangana Herath during the opening Test against Bangladesh in Darwin on Thursday, August 13 — International Left-Handers Day.
The timing made the achievement even more special for the veteran quick, who entered the match level with Herath on 433 Test wickets. Starc needed just one dismissal to stand alone at the top of the prestigious list.
Mitchell Starc moves past Rangana Herath to accomplish special record
Starc delivered the milestone in the ninth over of Bangladesh’s innings. The 36-year-old pacer induced an edge from opener Shadman Islam, with Nathan Lyon completing the catch to give Starc his 434th Test wicket. The dismissal not only gave Australia an early breakthrough but also secured Starc’s place at the summit among left-arm bowlers. Herath, who collected 433 wickets in 93 Tests, had held the record since his retirement.
Starc’s achievement is particularly impressive considering the contrasting nature of the two bowlers. While Herath built his legacy through relentless left-arm orthodox spin, Starc has established himself as one of the most feared left-arm fast bowlers of his generation.
Six wickets away from another major milestone
Starc’s 434th Test wicket also saw him draw level with India’s legendary all-rounder Kapil Dev on the overall Test wicket-takers’ chart. Kapil reached the same tally in 131 matches between 1978 and 1994, while Starc has needed only 106 Tests to match the Indian great.
The Australian now has another landmark firmly within reach. He is just six wickets short of Dale Steyn’s tally of 439, meaning Starc can break into the top 10 Test wicket-takers in history with seven more dismissals. That target could provide further motivation as he continues to spearhead Australia’s bowling attack in the latter stages of his career.
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A career decorated with global success
Since making his international debut in October 2010, Starc has become one of Australia’s most dependable performers across formats. His career has been defined not only by his individual numbers but also by his success on the biggest stages. He has been part of Australian teams that won the 2015 and 2023 ODI World Cups, with Starc also earning Player of the Tournament honours during Australia’s 2015 triumph. He has additionally celebrated success at the T20 World Cup and World Test Championship.
In ODIs, Starc has claimed 247 wickets from 130 matches at an average of 23.58. He retired from T20 internationals in September last year to concentrate on Test cricket and his remaining ambitions in the longer format, while keeping the 2027 ODI World Cup on his radar.
Most Test wickets by left-arm bowlers
| Rank | Player | Team | Tests | Wickets |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| 1 | Mitchell Starc | Australia | 106* | 434 |
| 2 | Rangana Herath | Sri Lanka | 93 | 433 |
| 3 | Wasim Akram | Pakistan | 104 | 414 |
| 4 | Daniel Vettori | New Zealand | 113 | 362 |
| 5 | Chaminda Vaas | Sri Lanka | 111 | 355 |
