Starc's latest achievement places him ahead of notable contemporaries such as Jasprit Bumrah, Pat Cummins, Kagiso Rabada, Kemar Roach, and Matt Henry, all of whom have secured three Player of the Series awards. His accolades span three different countries, with two awards won on home soil in Australia, and one each in England and the West Indies. This latest recognition comes on the heels of a commanding display in the second Test match held in Mackay, where he recorded figures of 10 wickets for just 51 runs, leading Australia to a decisive innings and 51-run victory over Bangladesh.
Starc's Dominance in the Second Test
The second Test was a showcase of Starc's exceptional skill, particularly evident on the first day when he dismantled the Bangladeshi batting lineup, claiming six wickets for just 12 runs as the visitors were bowled out for a mere 64 runs. He continued his dominance in the second innings, adding four more wickets to his tally as Bangladesh was dismissed for 95, marking his fourth 10-wicket match haul in Test cricket. This performance not only secured the win for Australia but also leveled the two-match series at 1-1, following an unexpected defeat in Darwin.
Climbing the All-Time Wicket-Takers List
In addition to his Player of the Series accolades, Starc's impressive performance has propelled him past South African legend Dale Steyn, placing him 10th on the all-time Test wicket-takers list with a total of 445 wickets. Among his active peers, Bumrah has also achieved three Player of the Series awards across England, South Africa, and Australia, while Cummins has earned all three in Australia. Rabada's awards span South Africa, England, and Bangladesh, Roach has two from the West Indies and one from Sri Lanka, and New Zealand's Matt Henry has three, including two at home and one in Zimbabwe.
Starc's latest milestone not only highlights his enduring prowess on the field but also sets the stage for a challenging year ahead for the Australian team, which is set to play 20 Tests, including tours to South Africa, India, and England.
