Mitchell Starc Makes History, Overtakes Mohammed Shami

Australia's pace ace Mitchell Starc added another feather to his crown on Wednesday, becoming the leading wicket-taker in the ICC tournament finals. The left-arm fast reached the milestone in the World Test Championship (WTC) final against South Africa at Lord's. Starc, in his fifth ICC final, now has 11 wickets in tournament deciders, overtaking India's Mohammed Shami, who had 10 wickets in four finals. The record solidifies Starc's status as a big-game performer for Australia.

Starc struck early in South Africa's second innings, dismissing Aiden Markram for a duck. He then rejected Ryan Rickelton for 16, finishing Day 1 with figures of 2/10 in a furious spell.

He also became the equal second-highest wicket-taker in ICC knockout matches. He shares the spot with former Australian legends Glenn McGrath and Mohammed Shami, both of whom have 22 wickets. Muttiah Muralitharan, a former Sri Lankan great, now leads with 23 wickets.

Sri Lankan Cricket Coach

His efforts helped Australia put pressure on South Africa, reducing them to 43/4 at stumps. South Africa, behind by 169 runs, will face an uphill battle when play continues on Day 2, with Starc poised to continue his onslaught on a sensitive Lords surface.

Australia had been bowled out for 212 in their first innings, with Kagiso Rabada leading South Africa's assault with five wickets. Still, Starc's early breakthroughs meant Australia regained momentum before the end of play.

Starc will be hungry to enhance his record and lead Australia closer to their second World Championship victory.