Australian fast bowler Mitchell Starc achieved a major career milestone in his 100th Test match by overtaking Brett Lee on the list of Australia’s all-time leading wicket-takers across all formats.
On the opening day of the third Test against the West Indies, the 35-year-old pacer claimed his 719th international wicket by dismissing Kevlon Anderson. With this achievement, Starc moved past former fast bowler Brett Lee, who had a total of 718 international wickets for Australia.
Read more: Mitchell Starc Achieves Remarkable Milestone Against Pakistan
Lee’s 718 wickets came from 322 appearances — including 310 in 76 Tests, 380 in 221 One Day Internationals (ODIs), and 28 in 25 T20 Internationals. In contrast, Starc has reached 719 wickets in just 292 matches, which include 396 wickets in red-ball cricket, 244 in 127 ODIs, and 79 in 65 T20Is.
This milestone places Starc third among Australia’s top wicket-takers in international cricket. He now trails only legendary spinner Shane Warne, who leads the chart with 999 wickets, and fast bowling icon Glenn McGrath, who took 948 wickets in his career.
Starc’s consistent performances across formats have made him a key figure in Australia’s bowling attack over the years. As he celebrates his 100th Test, his record further cements his legacy in Australian cricket history.
Nathan Lyon, the veteran off-spinner and current teammate of Starc in the Test squad, ranks fifth with 592 wickets across all formats.
Australia’s Top Five Wicket-Takers (All Formats):
- Shane Warne – 999 wickets
- Glenn McGrath – 948 wickets
- Mitchell Starc – 719 wickets*
- Brett Lee – 718 wickets
- Nathan Lyon – 592 wickets
*Starc’s tally may increase with the series still ongoing.
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