Ashes 2025-26: ‘Proud of you mate’ – Wasim Akram congratulates Mitchell Starc for becoming most successful left-arm Test pacer

Veteran Australian seamer Mitchell Starc registered his name in history books on Day 1 of the pink-ball Ashes Test in Brisbane, surpassing legendary Pakistan pacer Wasim Akram to become the most successful left-arm fast bowler in Test cricket. Starc delivered another sensational performance, claiming six wickets and guiding the hosts through a thrilling opening day at the Gabba. Notably, Akram, whose record stood for decades, applauded Starc’s achievement.

The left-arm seamer entered the second Ashes Test with 414 Test wickets, equal with Akram. Within the first two sessions, he dismissed Ben Duckett, Ollie Pope, and Harry Brook to climb up to the top of the all-time list for left-arm pacers. By stumps, he had extended his tally to 418 wickets, adding yet another six-wicket haul to his pink-ball record. His 6/71 also made him the first Australian fast bowler to take six wickets in three consecutive Test matches, a rare feat last achieved by England’s Tom Richardson in the 19th century. The former Pakistan pacer praised Starc for breaking his record and motivated him the push hard for more.

“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 on X, as quoted by ESPNcricinfo.

Wasim is still the pinnacle left-armer: Starc

The 35-year-old was on the money from the very first over, as he removed Duckett for a duck. Moments later, he castled Pope. Starc continued his brilliance as he returned in the session to remove Harry Brook for 31, the wicket that officially put him past Akram’s tally.

He also dismantled England’s lower order, with his victims including Will Jacks, Gus Atkinson, and Brydon Carse. He ended with figures of 6/71 as England ended the day at 325/9. Speaking after the day’s play, Starc opened up about the milestone.

“I’ll reflect on it later. Wasim still the pinnacle left-armer, I think he’s still better. (Key to his incredible success with the pink ball) I get asked all the time, I still don’t know. It is what it is. I think it’s still like a white ball. Today, it was a soft ball. A couple of Yorkshiremen, runs and wickets. Joe’s batted well there. A pretty tough day’s cricket. I think once that ball goes soft, it’s not the easiest thing to score with. It’s certainly not the easiest thing to bowl with when it’s soft. Proper Test cricket. Pink ball, 9 for 320, pretty solid day’s Test cricket,” he said.