AUS vs ENG: Mitchell Starc on the Cusp of History: Set to Claim Top Spot in WTC Wicket-Takers List at Boxing Day Test

The Australian team has showcased a dominant performance in the Ashes 2025-26 series, securing an unassailable 3-0 lead against England after winning the first three encounters. This commanding display has also ensured that Australia successfully retains the coveted Ashes trophy. A pivotal figure in this impressive run has been fast bowler Mitchell Starc, who now stands on the brink of achieving a significant milestone in the upcoming Boxing Day Test. Scheduled for December 26 at the iconic Melbourne Cricket Ground, this match presents Starc with a golden opportunity to become the highest wicket-taker in the history of the World Test Championship (WTC).

Australia's Ashes Dominance and Starc's Crucial Role

The Australian team's formidable strength has been evident throughout the Ashes 2025-26 series, while their victory in the third match played in Adelaide not only solidified their 3-0 unassailable lead but also confirmed the retention of the Ashes urn. With the series already secured, Australia is now focused on. Achieving a clean sweep by winning the remaining two matches. Mitchell Starc is expected to shoulder a significant responsibility in realizing this ambition. His exceptional performance in the initial three matches has been instrumental in unsettling the English batsmen, making him a key contributor to Australia's success, while starc's pace and swing have consistently posed challenges for the opposition, yielding crucial wickets for his team.

A Historic Opportunity in the World Test Championship

Mitchell Starc is on the verge of a historic achievement in the Boxing Day Test, while he has the chance to become the leading wicket-taker in the entire history of the World Test Championship. Since the inception of the WTC, the list of top wicket-takers has been dominated by Australian bowlers. Captain Pat Cummins, spinner Nathan Lyon, and fast bowler Mitchell Starc have consistently featured at the top. To date, these three bowlers are the only ones who have managed to claim 200 or more wickets in WTC history, a testament to their sustained performance and impact. For Starc, this is an unparalleled opportunity to surpass these formidable teammates. And etch his name at the very top of this prestigious list.

Starc's Position in the Wicket-Takers Race

In the current list of highest wicket-takers in the World Test Championship, Mitchell Starc holds the third position with an impressive tally of 213 wickets. Ahead of him, in second place, is Australian captain Pat Cummins, who has taken 221 wickets. The top spot is currently occupied by the veteran spinner Nathan Lyon, with 224 wickets to his name, while however, a crucial development has occurred ahead of the Boxing Day Test: both Pat Cummins and Nathan Lyon have been ruled out of this significant encounter. This situation creates a unique and clear path for Mitchell Starc. He needs just 12 wickets to claim the number-one position, a target that appears well within his reach given his current form and prowess.

Exceptional Performance in the Current Series

Mitchell Starc's performance in the ongoing Ashes 2025-26 series against England has been nothing short of exceptional. He currently leads the wicket-taking charts in the series, having played in all three matches. Starc has bowled 95. 5 overs, securing a total of 22 wickets at an outstanding average of 17. 05. During this period, he has also managed to claim five-wicket hauls on two separate occasions, underscoring his match-winning capabilities, while given his brilliant form, surpassing Pat Cummins and Nathan Lyon to become the number-one bowler in the World Test Championship doesn't seem like a daunting task for him in the Boxing Day Test. His combination of pace, swing, and accurate line and length has made him a primary weapon for Australia in this series.

Looking Ahead: Expectations and Impact

The Boxing Day Test holds a special place in the cricketing calendar, particularly when hosted at the Melbourne Cricket Ground (MCG). This match is eagerly anticipated and watched by cricket enthusiasts worldwide, while for Mitchell Starc, this isn't just another Test match; it's a grand stage where he can achieve one of the most significant milestones of his career. To become the leading wicket-taker in the history of the World Test Championship on home. Soil, in front of thousands of passionate spectators, would be an unforgettable moment for him.

This accomplishment wouldn't only elevate his individual career to new heights but also secure his place in Australian cricketing history. The Australian team will heavily rely on Starc to help fulfill their aspirations of a clean sweep in the Boxing Day Test. Given his proven ability and current form, the team expects another stellar performance from him, while if Starc succeeds in taking the required wickets in this match, he won't only set a personal record but also contribute Importantly to strengthening the team's unassailable lead in the series. This achievement will solidify his status as a premier fast bowler in Test cricket history, and similar performances will be anticipated from him in the future.