Australia’s pacer Mitchell Starc created history during the third Test against the West Indies in Jamaica, as he claimed a remarkable 5-wicket haul in just 2.3 overs. This exceptional performance came on the occasion of his 100th Test match for Australia, as Starc took full advantage of the pink ball. His efforts, combined with teammate Scott Boland’s stunning hat-trick, helped Australia dismiss the West Indies for a mere 27 runs.
Starc’s achievement broke the world record for the fastest five-wicket haul, setting a new benchmark in cricket history. Before this, the record for the quickest 5-wicket haul was jointly held by Ernie Toshack of Australia, who took 19 balls in 1947 against India, and two other bowlers, Stuart Broad of England and Scott Boland. Starc, however, took just 15 balls to reach his five-wicket milestone, a feat never before seen in world cricket.
In addition to this world record, Starc also joined an elite group of Australian cricketers, including Shane Warne, Glenn McGrath, and Nathan Lyon, by surpassing 400 Test wickets. His figures of 6 for 9 now bring his total Test wickets to 402, placing him fourth among Australia’s all-time leading wicket-takers in the longest format of the game.
Despite the West Indies’ low total of 27 runs, which is only one more than the lowest-ever Test total of 26 set by New Zealand in 1955, Starc’s performance was a standout. His first over saw him take 3 wickets for no runs, leaving the West Indies struggling. His fifth wicket reduced the West Indies to 7/5, with Starc’s brilliant bowling breaking a long-standing record. Boland, too, followed suit, claiming a hat-trick with figures of 3/2.
Mitchell Starc’s performance in this match further solidifies his legacy as one of the best pacers in the history of Test cricket. His world-record-breaking performance is a testament to his skill, precision, and ability to dominate even in the most challenging conditions.
In other news, South Africa secured a five-wicket victory in the first T20I against Zimbabwe — Read more about the match details
