[Darwin, Australia – Australian paceman Mitchell Starc has etched his name further into cricket history, becoming the most prolific left-arm bowler in Test cricket. The milestone was achieved during Australia’s opening Test against Bangladesh in Darwin, where Starc dismissed opener Shadman Islam in the ninth over of the first innings, taking his Test wicket tally to 434. This achievement surpasses the record previously held by Sri Lankan spin legend Rangana Herath, who had 433 wickets.
Starc’s remarkable feat also places him alongside Indian cricketing icon Kapil Dev in the all-time Test wicket-takers’ list. Both bowlers now stand at 434 wickets, with Starc reaching this mark in 25 fewer matches than Dev, who played 131 Tests between 1978 and 1994. The left-arm quick is now on the verge of breaking into the top 10 all-time Test wicket-takers, needing just six more wickets to overtake South African great Dale Steyn, who currently holds 10th position with 439 wickets from 93 Tests. For more on cricket and other athletic achievements, visit our Sports section.
While Starc was celebrating his individual achievement, Bangladesh’s pace attack delivered a memorable performance of their own, putting the Australian team under significant pressure on the opening day. Hasan Mahmud was the star for Bangladesh, claiming a career-best 6-55 as Australia was bowled out for 198 on a green-tinged pitch.
Australia had started briskly after winning the toss, reaching 45 without loss before Mahmud made his impact in his sixth over, removing Jake Weatherald for 23 and Travis Head for 22 in quick succession. This opened the door for Bangladesh to assert control. Mahmud, supported by Taskin Ahmed (2-55) and Ebadot Hossain (2-39), expertly exploited the conditions, maintaining relentless pressure on the Australian batsmen throughout the first two sessions. Steve Smith’s resilient 71 was the only significant contribution for Australia, as Bangladesh’s disciplined pace attack consistently found movement and assistance from the surface.
Ultimately, the opening day in Darwin was a testament to both Starc’s enduring legacy and the impressive collective effort of Bangladesh’s fast bowlers.
Source: Original Source
