Starc’s Historic Achievement
Mitchell Starc has made history in Test cricket, becoming the most successful left-arm bowler. He achieved this milestone by taking his 434th Test wicket, surpassing the previous record held by Sri Lankan spinner Rangana Herath.
The Australian pacer reached this significant landmark on Day 1 of the first Test against Bangladesh in Darwin. His record-breaking wicket came when he dismissed Shadnan Islam, securing his 434th scalp in Test cricket. Herath had previously held the record with 433 wickets.
Starc’s achievement marks a significant moment in his career and in the history of Test cricket, solidifying his place among the sport’s elite bowlers. His consistent performance has now placed him at the top of the list for left-handed bowlers in the format.
Australia’s Batting Struggles and Bangladesh’s Dominance
In the same match where Starc made history, Australia faced significant batting challenges. After electing to bat first, they were bowled out for just 198 runs in their first innings. This total represents their lowest-ever score against Bangladesh in Test cricket.
The Australian innings began with a 45-run opening stand between Travis Head, who scored 22, and Jake Weatherald, who contributed 23 runs. However, after this initial partnership, the team struggled to build momentum. Despite a notable effort from Steve Smith, who scored 71 runs off 109 balls, including seven fours and a six, the rest of the batting line-up faltered.
The collapse saw Australia sink to 74/4, and they were unable to recover, eventually being dismissed for 198. This score is lower than their previous lowest Test total against Bangladesh, which was 217 runs in Mirpur back in 2017.
Historic Day for Bangladesh Pacers
The first day of the Test was also historic for Bangladesh’s pace attack, particularly for Hasan Mahmud. Mahmud recorded the best-ever figures by a Bangladeshi bowler against Australia. His performance surpassed the previous best of 5/62 achieved by Rafique at Fatullah in 2006.
Mahmud’s impressive bowling display was instrumental in restricting Australia to their lowest Test score against Bangladesh. He now has three five-wicket hauls in 15 Tests, making him the second-most successful Bangladeshi pacer in terms of five-wicket hauls, trailing only Shahadat Hossain, who has four in 38 Tests.
With five-wicket hauls in India, Pakistan, and now against Australia, Hasan Mahmud is establishing himself as a formidable bowler, especially in away conditions. His ability to perform consistently in different environments highlights his growing influence in the Bangladesh bowling attack.
Taskin Ahmed Reaches Milestone
Adding to Bangladesh’s memorable day, Taskin Ahmed also achieved a significant personal milestone. He completed 300 international wickets across all formats, becoming the sixth bowler in Bangladesh cricketing history to reach this landmark.
Taskin’s spell of 2/55 contributed to his overall tally, bringing him to exactly 300 wickets in 204 matches. His career statistics include 13 four-wicket hauls and three five-wicket hauls, with an average above 28.
He joins an esteemed list of Bangladeshi bowlers who have achieved this feat. Ahead of him in Bangladesh’s all-time bowling charts are Shakib-Al Hasan with 712 wickets, Mashrafe Mortaza with 389, Mustafizur Rahman with 384, Mehidy Hasan Miraz with 369, and Taijul Islam with 302 wickets.
Source: m.rediff.com
