Mitchell Starc Creates History! Becomes First Left-Arm Bowler to Take 450 Test Wickets

New Delhi, Oct 20: Australian pacer Mitchell Starc has created history by becoming the first left-arm bowler to claim 450 wickets in Test cricket. The milestone came on Day 3 of the second Test between Australia and South Africa, further strengthening the fast bowler's place among the game's leading wicket-takers.

Starc reached the landmark by dismissing South Africa's Wiaan Mulder on the final ball of the 50th over. The breakthrough marked a significant moment in the Australian pacer's career, highlighting his consistency and longevity in the longest format of the game.

The 36-year-old has established himself as a key figure in Australia's Test attack through his ability to generate pace, swing the ball and deliver crucial breakthroughs. His left-arm angle has been a valuable weapon, allowing him to challenge both right-handed and left-handed batters with different lines and lengths.

Reaching 450 Test wickets is a major achievement for any fast bowler, but Starc's record is particularly notable because no left-arm bowler had previously reached the milestone in the format. His accomplishment underlines his impact across years of international cricket and his contribution to Australia's success in Test matches.

Starc has played an important role in Australia's pace battery alongside fellow quicks, regularly taking responsibility with the new ball and returning for key spells later in an innings. His ability to combine wicket-taking threat with sustained pace has made him one of the most influential fast bowlers of his generation.

Most Test Wickets for Australia

• 708 - Shane Warne
• 573 - Nathan Lyon
• 563 - Glenn McGrath
• 450* - Mitchell Starc
• 355 - Dennis Lillee

The milestone also adds another chapter to Starc's distinguished international career, which has included major performances across all three formats. Known for his aggressive approach and ability to strike at crucial moments, he remains a central component of Australia's bowling plans.

His achievement against South Africa provides further evidence of his enduring value in Test cricket, where stamina, control and adaptability are essential. Becoming the first left-arm bowler to reach 450 wickets places Starc in a unique category in the sport's history and reinforces his standing as one of Australia's premier fast-bowling greats.