Can Mitchell Starc Surpass Herath as the Highest Left-arm Wicket-taker in Ashes 2025-26?
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Synopsis
As the Ashes 2025-26 approaches its climax, Australian bowler Mitchell Starc is on the brink of making history. With only six wickets to go, he aims to surpass Rangana Herath as the highest left-arm wicket-taker in Test cricket. Will he achieve this remarkable feat in the final match at the Sydney Cricket Ground?
Key Takeaways
- Mitchell Starc is on the verge of becoming the highest left-arm wicket-taker in Test cricket.
- He has been in exceptional form during the Ashes 2025-26 series.
- Starc made his Test debut in 2011 and has had a remarkable career since.
- Rangana Herath currently holds the record for the most wickets by a left-arm bowler.
- Starc's decision to retire from T20 internationals reflects his commitment to red-ball cricket.
Sydney, Jan 2 (NationPress) Australia’s star bowler Mitchell Starc is set to conclude the Ashes 2025-26 with a bang when he steps onto the field on January 4 for the series finale at the Sydney Cricket Ground. He is just six wickets shy of making history as the most accomplished left-arm bowler in Test cricket.
Starc is currently enjoying a phenomenal run in the ongoing Ashes 2025-26 series, having claimed 26 wickets across four matches with an impressive average of 17.42. His stellar performances in both Perth and Brisbane earned him the Player of the Match honors in each Test. No other bowler has even come close to reaching the 20-wicket milestone.
At 35, Starc made his Test debut for Australia against New Zealand at The Gabba, Brisbane, on December 1, 2011, in a two-Test series, where he took two wickets and received his Baggy Green from the legendary Richie Benaud.
Since then, Starc has amassed a total of 428 wickets in 104 matches with a bowling average of 26.43. He has achieved 18 five-wicket hauls and three instances of taking ten wickets in a match.
Currently, the record for the most successful left-arm bowler is held by former Sri Lankan spinner Rangana Herath, who has taken 433 wickets from 93 Tests at an average of 28.0. Should Starc achieve six more wickets, he will surpass Herath and claim the title of the highest left-arm Test wicket-taker.
Starc also had an outstanding year in 2025, participating in 11 matches and leading the charts with 55 wickets at an average of 17.32. His record includes three five-wicket hauls and one ten-wicket match haul. Notably, he made the strategic choice to retire from T20 internationals to maintain his fitness for the red-ball format, although he will continue to compete in T20 leagues such as the IPL and BBL, representing the Delhi Capitals in IPL 2026.
Point of View
The upcoming match where Mitchell Starc aims to make history is a significant event in the cricketing world. His performances throughout the Ashes 2025-26 have not only showcased his skill but also his dedication to the sport. As he stands on the brink of surpassing a legendary figure like Rangana Herath, it’s a moment that resonates with cricket fans globally.
NationPress
07/01/2026
Frequently Asked Questions
How many wickets does Mitchell Starc need to surpass Rangana Herath?
Mitchell Starc needs just six wickets to surpass Rangana Herath as the highest left-arm wicket-taker in Test cricket.
When did Mitchell Starc make his Test debut?
Mitchell Starc made his Test debut for Australia against New Zealand on December 1, 2011, at The Gabba, Brisbane.
What has been Starc's performance in the Ashes 2025-26?
In the Ashes 2025-26 series, Starc has taken 26 wickets in four matches, boasting an impressive average of 17.42.
What are Starc's career statistics?
As of now, Starc has taken 428 wickets in 104 Tests with a bowling average of 26.43, including 18 five-wicket hauls.
What is Starc's current T20 status?
Mitchell Starc has retired from T20 internationals to focus on red-ball cricket but will continue playing in T20 leagues like the IPL.
