There are moments in cricket when history unfolds not through sweeping victories or dramatic finishes, but through quiet milestones engraved into the sport’s memory. Mitchell Starc’s surpassing of Wasim Akram’s long-held record for the most Test wickets by a left-arm fast bowler is one such moment. It marks the end of one era and the triumphant rise of another.
Yet, intriguingly, Starc himself refuses to entertain any notion that he has eclipsed the great Pakistani bowler. And perhaps that humility reveals more about the legacy of both men than any record can.
On the first day of the Brisbane Test, Starc delivered one of his most commanding spells in recent years. His six-wicket haul propelled him past Akram’s tally of 414 wickets, taking him to 418. This achievement, coming at a stage when many pacers slow down or retire, speaks volumes about Starc’s longevity and evolution.
When asked if he now sees himself as the greatest left-arm pace bowler in cricket history, Starc shook off the idea immediately:
“No. I won’t call myself the greatest of all time. Wasim is still far better than I am. He’s the best left-arm bowler in my view—one of the best bowlers cricket has ever seen. It’s nice my name is alongside his, but I’m just trying to keep improving.”
This humility is refreshing, especially in an era where boastfulness often dominates sporting culture. But it also reflects a deeper truth: Akram’s influence transcends numbers. His innovation, mastery, leadership, and global impact define what it means to be a fast bowler. Starc, despite entering elite statistical territory, recognises that greatness is not measured purely through wickets.
Akram’s response underscores the warmth and camaraderie of cricket’s fast-bowling fraternity. His message—congratulating Starc, praising his hard work, and graciously “handing over” the record—symbolised the passing of a torch with dignity and pride.
The contrasting styles of the two bowlers also shape how fans interpret their legacies. Akram was a magician, capable of making the ball talk on any surface. His reverse swing remains the stuff of legend. Starc, meanwhile, operates with raw pace, deadly inswingers, and bursts of unplayable spells that rip through opposition line-ups. Both styles are effective, both unique—but their impact differs culturally and historically.
Statistically, Starc is experiencing one of the best phases of his career. His form in the Ashes has been phenomenal: 16 wickets at an extraordinary average of 11.50. Over the last year, his bowling average has dipped to a superb 15.20—the best of his career. At age 35, these numbers are not just impressive—they are exceptional.
However, the question remains: does breaking Akram’s record make Starc the greatest left-arm fast bowler? The short answer—based on skill, innovation, and influence—is still no. Even Starc agrees. But it does place him firmly among the top tier of modern fast bowlers and cements his status as one of Australia’s most impactful pacers.
Records evolve. Legacies endure. And as Starc continues to rise, he honours the man who paved the way—ensuring both names remain inseparable in cricket’s rich tapestry of fast-bowling greatness.