In a touching display of respect and sportsmanship, Mitchell Starc praises Wasim Akram after surpassing the legendary Pakistani fast bowler to become the highest wicket-taking left-arm pacer in Test cricket. Starc, who has long idolised Akram, paid an emotional tribute to the Sultan of Swing, calling him the “greatest left-arm fast bowler of all time” even after breaking his Test record.
Mitchell Starc Praises Wasim Akram
This moment marks not only a historic cricketing milestone but also a powerful reminder of how one generation of fast bowlers continues to inspire the next.
Starc’s Admiration Began Long Before the Record Was Broken
Mitchell Starc’s affection and admiration for Wasim Akram isn’t new. In an earlier interview with the Herald Sun during the early years of his career, Starc openly stated that he grew up idolising the Pakistani great.
“He was an absolute genius at bowling conventional swing, reverse swing, and bowling fast,” Starc said. “He set the standard of left-arm fast bowling.”
Starc, then a young promising fast bowler with just 26 Tests and 51 ODIs, admitted that Akram’s mastery had shaped his cricketing dreams. He added:
“If I could be even half the bowler that he was, that would be great.”
These words now hold even deeper meaning as Starc sits atop the list of left-arm pacers in Test history.
Learning From the Legend Himself
One of the reasons Wasim Akram continues to be celebrated is not just his record but his willingness to counsel budding fast bowlers. Starc spoke about his interactions with the Pakistani legend, highlighting his humility and openness.
“Having the chance to work with him a couple of occasions, it’s fantastic to chat to him,” Starc shared. “He’s really open and approachable. He’s great to talk to about left-arm fast bowling.”
Akram’s influence on young quicks across the globe is undeniable. From guiding Pakistan’s next generation to coaching overseas talents, he has played a crucial role in shaping many of the world’s best fast bowlers—including Starc.
The Historic Moment: Starc Breaks Akram’s Record
On December 4 during the second Ashes Test at the Gabba in Brisbane, Starc crossed the magical figure of 415 Test wickets, edging past Wasim Akram’s 414.
England, opting to bat first, immediately felt the heat of Starc’s fiery opening spell. With the pink ball under lights, Starc dismantled the top order:
-
Ben Duckett – bowled first ball for a golden duck
-
Ollie Pope – bowled for 0 in the next over
-
Harry Brook – removed during a vital rebuilding attempt
This performance cemented Starc’s reputation as the king of pink-ball cricket. His tally of 84 day-night Test wickets is the highest in the world, comfortably ahead of Pat Cummins.
Starc also became the first bowler ever to take more than 20 pink-ball Test wickets against a single opponent, adding another unique milestone to his illustrious career.
Wasim Akram’s Heartfelt Reaction to Starc’s Milestone
True to his gracious personality, Wasim Akram celebrated Starc’s achievement rather than lamenting the fall of his own record. Taking to X (formerly Twitter), the Pakistani icon congratulated Starc and praised his hard work, consistency, and contribution to world cricket.
Earlier, Akram had even predicted Starc would surpass him:
“Right now, [Starc] is the number one bowler in world cricket and the hardest one to face in all forms. He will go past my record and that is fine because he is a man for the job and a worthy champion.”
Akram added with pride:
“I am actually really proud of this guy. He has done wonders for his side and for cricket. I think he will get 500 Test wickets.”
Such admiration from a cricketing giant only reinforces the bond of respect between the two left-arm fast bowling icons.
Starc Responds With Humility and Respect
Despite breaking the record, Starc refused to entertain any comparisons with Akram. Speaking at the press conference after stumps, he was quick to deflect praise back to his hero.
“I won’t be calling myself that,” Starc responded when asked whether he is the greatest left-arm pacer. “Wasim’s still a far better bowler than I am.”
He continued:
“He’s still the pinnacle of left-armers and certainly right up there with bowlers to ever play the game.”
These words demonstrate the humility and grace with which Starc approaches his craft—qualities that make him one of the most respected players in world cricket today.
Statistical Comparison: Starc vs Akram
Wasim Akram
-
414 Test wickets
-
104 matches
-
25 five-wicket hauls
-
Master of reverse swing
Mitchell Starc
-
415+ Test wickets (and counting)
-
102 matches
-
18 five-wicket hauls
-
Best pink-ball bowler in history
While records may tilt in Starc’s favour now, both bowler’s careers belong to different eras, match conditions, and cricketing landscapes. What unites them is their influence on the art of left-arm fast bowling.
A Legacy That Spans Generations
This story is bigger than a broken record—it symbolises the transfer of cricketing legacy across generations. Mitchell Starc praises Wasim Akram, not only as a former champion but as an inspiration who shaped his journey from a raw youngster to a world-class pacer.
Starc’s record will one day be challenged by another left-arm quick. But what will remain timeless is the spirit of sportsmanship, respect, and admiration showcased by both these extraordinary athletes.
