10 wickets at Perth! Starc storms through ENG to join McGrath, Johnson among AUS greats

Mitchell Starc produced a sensational performance against England [Source: AFP]

Australia’s star pacer Mitchell Starc produced a sensational performance as the Ashes 2025–26 series kicked off in Perth. The left-armer ripped through England’s batting lineup and finished the match with 10 wickets, completely dominating the visitors at the Optus Stadium.

This performance also helped Starc enter the history books, as he became only the third Australian fast bowler ever to take three or more 10-wicket hauls in Test cricket. 

With this achievement, he now joins legendary names like Glenn McGrath, Graham McKenzie and Mitchell Johnson. Only Dennis Lillee (7) and Frederick Spofforth (4) have more 10-wicket hauls among Australian pacers.

Most 10-wicket hauls by Australian pacers:

Notably, Starc’s destruction began on Day 1, when he delivered his career-best bowling figures of 7 wickets for 58 runs, helping bowl England out for just 172. The pitch was dry and tough for batters, and both sides struggled as 19 wickets fell on the opening day. 

England’s captain Ben Stokes tried to fight back with the ball and picked up 5 wickets for 23 runs, as Australia were bowled out for 132, leaving England with a small 40-run lead.

Starc unleashes bowling carnage again in Perth on Day 2

However, England’s advantage disappeared quickly in the second innings. Starc struck immediately, removing opener Zak Crawley in the very first over, just like he did in the first innings, where Crawley was also dismissed for a duck. Starc then bowled Joe Root for only eight runs, continuing his fiery rhythm.

The moment of celebration came when Starc dismissed England captain Ben Stokes for just two runs off 11 balls. As the ball crashed into the stumps, Starc secured his 10-wicket haul for the match.

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