NewKerala.com

Mitchell Starc Ties Herath's Record for Most Test Wickets by a Left-Arm Bowler

Australian fast bowler Mitchell Starc has equaled Sri Lankan spinner Rangana Herath's record for the most Test wickets taken by a left-arm bowler, reaching 433 scalps. His stellar performance in the recent Ashes series, where he took 31 wickets and scored two half-centuries, earned him the Player of the Series award. Starc is now just two wickets away from surpassing Indian legend Kapil Dev's career total of 434 Test wickets. The paceman made a strategic decision to retire from T20 International cricket to manage his workload and prolong his Test career.

Key Points: Mitchell Starc Equals Herath's Test Wicket Record

  • Starc equals Herath's 433 Test wickets
  • Named Ashes Player of the Series with 31 wickets
  • Now two wickets shy of Kapil Dev's total
  • Retired from T20Is to focus on Tests
2 min read

Starc equals Herath's record for most wickets in Tests by left-arm pacers

Australia's Mitchell Starc equals Rangana Herath's record of 433 Test wickets, becoming the joint-highest left-arm wicket-taker in history.

"The Australian legend has now taken 433 wickets in 105 matches - match report"

Sydney, Jan 8

Australia's talismanic fast bowler Mitchell Starc reached another milestone in his illustrious red-ball career on Thursday as he etched his name alongside the greats during the fifth day of the final Ashes game at the Sydney Cricket Ground, equalling Rangana Herath's record for the most wickets taken by a left-arm bowler in Test cricket history.

The Australian legend has now taken 433 wickets in 105 matches, while Sri Lanka's Herath reached the same total in just 93 matches.

Starc performed exceptionally well in the recent Ashes series, taking 31 wickets and contributing with two half-centuries. His outstanding all-round performance earned him the Player of the Series award.

With his usual pace partners Josh Hazlewood and Pat Cummins unavailable, the 35-year-old shifted the momentum on his own for the hosts. Thanks to his outstanding performances, particularly in Perth and Brisbane, he was named Player of the Match in both Test games.

The left-arm pacer made his Test debut for Australia against New Zealand at The Gabba in Brisbane on December 1, 2011, during the first match of a two-Test series. He took two wickets in that game and was awarded his Baggy Green by Richie Benaud.

Starc is just two wickets short of overtaking Kapil Dev in the list of top Test wicket-takers. The Indian icon, previously the leading wicket-taker in the red-ball format, concluded his career with 434 wickets. Meanwhile, Starc has 433 wickets and will aim to achieve the milestone in his next Test outing.

In 2025, Starc had an outstanding year, playing in 11 Tests and becoming the top wicket-taker with 55 wickets at an average of 17.32. He achieved three five-wicket innings and one 10-wicket match. The left-arm fast bowler also made the strategic choice to retire from T20 Internationals to better manage his workload and remain fit for Test cricket. Nonetheless, he will still participate in T20 leagues like the IPL and BBL. In IPL 2026, he will play for the Delhi Capitals.

- IANS

Share this article:

Reader Comments

P
Priyanka N
As an Indian fan, my eyes are on that next milestone. He's just one wicket away from surpassing our very own Kapil Dev paaji! It's bittersweet, but you have to admire Starc's longevity and skill. Hope he gets it in his next match.
A
Aman W
Respect for choosing Tests over T20Is. In this era of franchise cricket, seeing a top bowler prioritize the pinnacle format is refreshing. His workload management for DC in the IPL will be crucial though.
S
Sarah B
That 2025 record is insane – 55 wickets at 17! He's 35 and still getting better. The Ashes performance proved he's the heart of that Australian attack, especially when Cummins was out. A true match-winner.
V
Vikram M
Great bowler, no doubt. But the article feels a bit one-sided in praising Starc. Herath's achievement in fewer matches, especially as a spinner on less helpful pitches, deserves equal spotlight. Both records are monumental.
K
Kavya N
Delhi Capitals fan here! So excited to see him in blue next IPL season. If he brings even half this Test form, our bowling attack will be terrifying. Just hope the management uses him wisely.

We welcome thoughtful discussions from our readers. Please keep comments respectful and on-topic.

Leave a Comment

Minimum 50 characters 0/50