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

Australian fast bowler Mitchell Starc has made history by becoming the first left-arm bowler to claim 450 wickets in Test cricket. He reached the milestone during the third day of the second Test between Australia and South Africa at St George’s Park in Gqeberha on October 20, 2026.

Starc achieved the landmark by dismissing South African all-rounder Wiaan Mulder. The wicket placed the experienced Australian pacer in an exclusive group of bowlers who have reached 450 Test wickets, while also establishing a new record for the fewest balls required to reach the milestone.

Starc Creates History in Test Cricket

Starc entered the second Test needing two wickets to reach 450 career Test dismissals. He moved closer to the target by taking the wicket of Matthew Breetzke before dismissing Mulder to complete the historic achievement.

The milestone makes Starc the first left-arm bowler in Test history to reach the 450-wicket mark. It also makes him the fourth Australian bowler to achieve the feat, joining Shane Warne, Glenn McGrath and Nathan Lyon.

Starc’s achievement highlights his longevity, consistency and ability to perform at the highest level across different conditions and against leading international batting line-ups.

Mitchell Starc Breaks Glenn McGrath’s Record

Starc’s latest achievement is not limited to becoming the first left-arm bowler with 450 Test wickets. He has also set a new benchmark for the fewest deliveries needed to reach the milestone.

The Australian fast bowler reached 450 wickets after bowling 20,577 deliveries in Test cricket. This surpassed the previous record held by his compatriot Glenn McGrath, who needed 23,474 balls to reach the same milestone.

The record underlines Starc’s wicket-taking ability and attacking approach. His pace, movement and ability to generate breakthroughs have made him a significant part of Australia’s Test bowling attack for more than a decade.

Starc Joins Australia’s Elite Test Bowlers

Australia has produced several legendary Test bowlers, and Starc’s latest milestone strengthens his place among the country’s leading wicket-takers.

The four Australian bowlers to have reached at least 450 Test wickets are:

• Shane Warne: 708 Test wickets
• Nathan Lyon: 573 Test wickets
• Glenn McGrath: 563 Test wickets
• Mitchell Starc: 450 Test wickets and counting

These figures reflect Australia’s rich history of world-class bowling across generations. While Warne and Lyon built their records as specialist spinners, McGrath and Starc have been among the country’s most influential fast bowlers.

Figures reflect the reported milestone and may change as Starc continues his career.

A Major Milestone During Australia’s South Africa Tour

Starc reached the landmark during Australia’s second Test against South Africa, adding another talking point to the ongoing series. His ability to strike at crucial moments remains an important asset for the Australian team in the longest format.

The achievement also demonstrates the value of experience in Test cricket, where bowlers must combine skill, fitness and tactical awareness over long spells and demanding match situations.

As Starc continues to represent Australia, his tally could rise further, giving him the opportunity to strengthen his position among the leading wicket-takers in Test history.

What Mitchell Starc’s Record Means

Becoming the first left-arm bowler to take 450 Test wickets is a landmark achievement in international cricket. Reaching the same figure in fewer deliveries than any bowler before him adds another significant record to Starc’s career.

His milestone places him alongside some of Australia’s most celebrated bowlers and further establishes his legacy as one of the leading left-arm fast bowlers in Test cricket.