Mitchell Starc Nears Top Five Test Wicket‑Takers Ahead of Bangladesh Test

Australia’s left‑arm fast bowler Mitchell Starc entered the first Test against Bangladesh in Darwin with 433 Test wickets, one short of Kapil Dev’s career total and within reach of Dale Steyn’s 439. A further seven scalps this month would move him into the top five wicket‑taking quicks of all time.

At 36, Starc attributes his sustained success to a clearer mind and the habit of “letting it go,” saying mental composure is as important as his wobble‑seam technique. He is a leading contender for the 2026 Allan Border Medal, an award he previously won in 2022 after a career‑high season that helped Australia secure a 4‑1 Ashes series victory.

Starc’s performance underscores the strength of Australia’s settled pace attack and his personal drive to improve even after 16 years at the top level.