Key Points

Mitchell Starc has become the leading wicket-taker in ICC tournament finals, surpassing India's Mohammed Shami. His fiery spell left South Africa reeling at 43/4 in the WTC decider. Starc now shares second place in ICC knockout wickets with Glenn McGrath. Australia is well-positioned to secure their second World Test Championship title.

Key Points: Mitchell Starc Surpasses Shami as ICC Finals Wicket Leader

  • Starc claims 11 wickets in ICC finals overtaking Shami
  • Fiery spell reduces South Africa to 43/4
  • Now joint second in ICC knockout wickets with McGrath
  • Australia eyes second WTC title
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Mitchell Starc is now leading wicket-taker in ICC tournament finals, surpasses Mohamed Shami

Australia's Mitchell Starc breaks Mohammed Shami's record for most wickets in ICC tournament finals during the WTC decider against South Africa.

"Starc's early breakthroughs ensured Australia clawed back momentum by the close of play. – Match Report"

London, June 12

Australia's pace ace Mitchell Starc added another feather to his cap on Wednesday, becoming the highest wicket-taker in ICC tournament finals. The left-arm quick achieved the milestone during the World Test Championship (WTC) final against South Africa at Lord's.

Starc, playing in his fifth ICC final, has now taken 11 wickets across tournament deciders, surpassing India's Mohammed Shami, who had claimed 10 wickets in four finals. The record further cements Starc's reputation as a big-match performer for Australia.

The milestone came in style as Starc struck early in South Africa's second innings, cleaning up Aiden Markram for a duck. He followed it up with the dismissal of Ryan Rickelton for 16, ending Day 1 with figures of 2/10 in a fiery spell.

He also became the joint second-highest wicket taker in ICC knockout games. He is sharing the spot with former Aussie legend Glenn McGrath and Mohammed Shami, who each have taken 22 wickets. The top spot is with former Sri Lankan great Muttiah Muralitharan, who has 23 wickets.Sri Lankan cricket coach

His efforts helped Australia put South Africa under pressure, reducing the Proteas to 43/4 at stumps. Trailing by 169 runs, South Africa will face an uphill task when play resumes on Day 2, with Starc expected to continue his assault on a responsive Lord's surface.

Australia had earlier been bowled out for 212 in their first innings, with Kagiso Rabada leading South Africa's charge with a five-wicket haul but Starc's early breakthroughs ensured Australia clawed back momentum by the close of play.

Starc will be eager to extend his record and guide Australia closer to securing their second WTC title.

- ANI

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Reader Comments

Here are 6 authentic Indian perspective comments on the cricket article:
R
Rahul K.
Starc is truly a champion bowler! But let's not forget Shami's incredible performances in pressure situations. Both are legends in their own right. Hope to see an India-Australia final soon where they can go head-to-head! 🇮🇳🇦🇺
P
Priya M.
As an Indian cricket fan, it hurts to see Shami's record broken, but you have to admire Starc's consistency. That left-arm angle is deadly! Maybe Bumrah can chase this record next time we reach a final 🤞
V
Vikram S.
Starc is a beast in ICC tournaments! But remember, Shami achieved his 10 wickets in fewer finals (4 vs Starc's 5). Quality over quantity matters too. Our pace attack is coming of age - Shami, Bumrah, Siraj can match anyone now!
A
Ananya R.
Why are we always comparing? Both are world-class bowlers who perform when it matters most. As cricket lovers, we should celebrate such talent regardless of nationality. Though I secretly hope an Indian breaks this record soon! 😉
S
Sanjay P.
Starc's achievement is impressive no doubt, but let's talk about how weak South Africa's batting looks! They're making Australia's 212 look like 400+. Our Indian team would have handled this bowling much better. WTC final should have India vs Australia - that's the real contest!
N
Neha T.
Cricket statistics are fun but sometimes overrated. What matters is winning trophies! Hope Team India learns from Australia's big-match temperament. We have the talent, just need that killer instinct in finals. #ChinUpShami

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