Starc Reaches 400 Test Wickets in 100th Match with Record-Breaking Spell Against West Indies

Mitchell Starc marked his 100th Test appearance in sensational fashion, becoming just the fourth Australian bowler to take 400 wickets in Test cricket. The veteran left-arm pacer achieved the milestone with career-best figures of 6 for 9 during a stunning spell against the West Indies in the third Test. His fiery 15-ball burst not only shattered records but also sealed Australia’s dominance, earning him both Player of the Match and Player of the Series honours.

Starc’s spell was historic—his five-wicket haul in just 15 deliveries is now the fastest in Test history, surpassing Ernie Toshack’s 1945 record. He tore through the West Indies’ top order, reducing them to 7 for 5 by his fifth over, as the visitors collapsed in just 14.3 overs chasing a target of 204. Starc cleaned up Jayden Seales to claim his sixth wicket, while Scott Boland added to the carnage with 3 for 2, including a hat-trick across deliveries.

With this performance, Starc surpassed Brett Lee’s tally of 718 international wickets, reaching 725 across formats. He now ranks third among Australian Test wicket-takers, behind only Shane Warne (999) and Glenn McGrath (948). Starc’s 400 Test wickets place him firmly among the greats of Australian cricket, and his longevity and evolution as a bowler have made him one of the most consistent match-winners of the past decade.

Starc’s career numbers reflect two dominant phases. Before turning 30, he claimed 244 wickets in 57 Tests at an average of 26.97 with 13 five-wicket hauls. Since then, he has added 158 wickets in 43 matches at an improved strike rate of 46.4, despite the physical challenges of fast bowling with age. His ability to adapt and deliver under pressure has solidified his legacy, with performances ranging from pink-ball brilliance to World Cup heroics and now a record-breaking 100th Test.

From his opening figures of 3 for 0 to dismantling the West Indies with pace and precision, Starc’s latest performance is another reminder of his enduring class and unmatched impact. As Australia’s bowling spearhead continues to break barriers, his name is now firmly etched among the legends of the game.