'He's still the pinnacle': Mitchell Starc's humble nod to Wasim Akram after passing Pakistan legend's record
Updated . First published at
BRISBANE: Mitchell Starc has humbly declared Wasim Akram is still a better bowler than him despite overtaking the Pakistan legend's wicket-taking tally.
When Starc had Harry Brook caught in the slips by Steve Smith from a rash shot, the left-hander officially put himself in the history books.
The dismissal was Starc's 415th in Test cricket, surpassing Akram's 414 to become the most prolific left-handed quick in the red ball format.
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After the day's play, Starc was asked about the achievement and whether he'd be calling himself the GOAT (greatest of all time).
Mitchell Starc takes a wicket. Getty
"I won't be calling myself that, no," he smiled.
"I'll reflect on it later. Wasim's still a far better bowler than I am. As far as I'm concerned he's still the pinnacle of left armers and certainty right up there with bowlers to play the game.
"It's nice to be spoken around that but I'll just keep trying to churn a few out."
Upon watching Starc overtake him, Akram immediately took to X to offer his congratulations.
Wasim Akram. Craig Golding/SMH
"Proud of you mate," he wrote.
"Your incredible hard work sets you apart, and it was only a matter of time before you crossed my tally of wickets. I am pleased to give this to you!
"Go well, and keep soaring to new heights in your stellar career."
Starc has had an incredible Ashes series so far, taking 16 wickets at 11.50. The 35-year-old currently has six wickets in this innings.
His bowling average for this year now sits at 15.20, by far and away a career best.
