AUS vs BAN: Mitchell Starc Creates History With One Wicket, Equals Kapil Dev's Test Tally
- byPranay Jain
- 13 Aug, 2026
Australia's opening Test against Bangladesh in Darwin began with a major setback for the hosts, but Mitchell Starc still managed to create history. The veteran Australian fast bowler claimed one wicket on the opening day and became the most successful left-arm bowler in Test cricket history.
Bangladesh's bowlers had earlier dismantled Australia's batting lineup, restricting the hosts to just 198 runs. Bangladesh then finished the day strongly at 96/1, leaving Australia under pressure.
Starc Breaks Left-Arm Bowling Record
Starc's biggest moment came when he dismissed Bangladesh opener Shadman Islam for 20, with Nathan Lyon taking the catch.
That wicket took Starc's Test tally to 434 wickets. He moved past Sri Lankan spinner Rangana Herath, who finished his career with 433 Test wickets, to become the highest wicket-taker among left-arm bowlers in Test cricket.
The milestone also saw Starc equal the legendary Kapil Dev's career tally of 434 Test wickets.
Starc achieved the landmark in his 106th Test, adding another major achievement to his already remarkable international career.
Bangladesh Put Australia on the Back Foot
The first day belonged largely to Bangladesh.
Australia were bowled out for just 198 in their first innings, with Bangladesh's pace attack causing major problems for the home batting lineup. Hasan Mahmud was the standout performer, taking six wickets for 55 runs.
Steve Smith provided Australia's main resistance with a fighting 71, but the rest of the batting lineup struggled to build significant partnerships.
Bangladesh Make Strong Start With the Bat
Bangladesh began their reply confidently after Australia's total.
They lost Shadman Islam for 20 when Starc struck, but Tanzid Hasan and Mominul Haque steadied the innings.
At stumps, Bangladesh had reached 96/1 and trailed Australia by only 102 runs. Tanzid Hasan was unbeaten on 32, while Mominul Haque was not out on 35.
The visitors' strong batting response meant Australia failed to regain control after their early collapse.
Hasan Mahmud Stars With Six Wickets
Hasan Mahmud was the biggest reason behind Australia's batting collapse. His six-wicket haul helped Bangladesh dismiss the hosts for 198.
The performance was particularly significant because Bangladesh were playing a Test in Australia for the first time in 23 years.
His spell, combined with the contributions of Ibadat Hossain and Taskin Ahmed, put Bangladesh in a commanding position by the end of the opening day.
Starc's Milestone Comes on a Difficult Day for Australia
While Starc's record was a personal highlight, Australia had very little else to celebrate.
Being bowled out for 198 and then watching Bangladesh reach 96/1 left the hosts trailing by just over 100 runs at the end of Day 1.
Bangladesh will now look to build a substantial first-innings lead, while Australia will need early wickets on Day 2 to prevent the visitors from taking complete control of the Test.
For Starc, however, the opening day will be remembered for a historic 434th Test wicket and his rise to the top of the left-arm bowling charts.






