Australian premier quick Mitchell Starc has reclaimed the number one spot in the updated ICC Test Rankings for bowlers following his nine wickets across two innings in the Cape Town Test against South Africa. Starc dethroned Proteas all-rounder Marco Jansen, who dropped down the standings after managing just three wickets across both innings. Jansen topped the bowlers' and all-rounders’ rankings in Tests after a brilliant second Test in Gqeberha, where he scored a valiant 85 with the bat in the first innings, followed up with five wickets in Australia’s first innings. His heroics led South Africa to win the match and level the three-match series 1-1. &nbsp;Starc was instrumental in triggering a late South African collapse on day one of the third and final Test, returning with 6/72 in the first innings. He then picked up 3/65 in the second but could not prevent Australia's defeat, as the visitors lost in Cape Town by 176 runs to concede the series 2-1. The defeat not only cost Australia their No. 1 Test ranking, but also slid them to third in the 2025–27 WTC standings behind New Zealand and South Africa.&nbsp;Also read| <a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/shubman-gill-rohit-sharma-run-out-india-vs-new-zealand-1st-odi-1793792599710">"That run-out by Rohit changed the momentum": Gill reflects on India's 5-wicket win in 1st ODI vs NZ</a> &nbsp;Jansen, however, was named the Player of the Series for his 198 runs with the bat and 13 wickets in three Tests. His teammate and Cape Town Test spin hero for South Africa, Simon Harmer, also jumped nine places to sit in the seventh spot with 817 points - the second-highest by a South African spinner, behind Hugh Tayfield, who had 895 in February 1957. &nbsp;Harmer spun his way to record books in the second innings of the final Test, picking up six for 16, as Australia failed to chase 288 on the final day. The visitors were bowled out for just 111.<h3>Shreyas Iyer Rises to 7th in T20Is</h3>India’s T20I captain Shreyas Iyer is among those who climbed up the T20I batting charts following the concluded series against New Zealand. After hitting a 50 in the fifth and final T20I in Hamilton, Iyer jumped two places to sit in the seventh spot in the updated rankings. &nbsp;New Zealand all-rounder Glenn Phillips, who won the Player of the Series award for scoring 341 runs in five T20Is, including a hundred and three fifties, also jumped 13 spots to 24th.&nbsp;

Mitchell Starc reclaims the No. 1 Test bowler spot in the latest ICC Rankings, while Shreyas Iyer and Glenn Phillips make significant gains in T20Is. 

Australian premier quick Mitchell Starc has reclaimed the number one spot in the updated ICC Test Rankings for bowlers following his nine wickets across two innings in the Cape Town Test against South Africa. Starc dethroned Proteas all-rounder Marco Jansen, who dropped down the standings after managing just three wickets across both innings. Jansen topped the bowlers' and all-rounders’ rankings in Tests after a brilliant second Test in Gqeberha, where he scored a valiant 85 with the bat in the first innings, followed up with five wickets in Australia’s first innings. His heroics led South Africa to win the match and level the three-match series 1-1. Starc was instrumental in triggering a late South African collapse on day one of the third and final Test, returning with 6/72 in the first innings. He then picked up 3/65 in the second but could not prevent Australia's defeat, as the visitors lost in Cape Town by 176 runs to concede the series 2-1. The defeat not only cost Australia their No. 1 Test ranking, but also slid them to third in the 2025–27 WTC standings behind New Zealand and South Africa. Also read| "That run-out by Rohit changed the momentum": Gill reflects on India's 5-wicket win in 1st ODI vs NZ Jansen, however, was named the Player of the Series for his 198 runs with the bat and 13 wickets in three Tests. His teammate and Cape Town Test spin hero for South Africa, Simon Harmer, also jumped nine places to sit in the seventh spot with 817 points - the second-highest by a South African spinner, behind Hugh Tayfield, who had 895 in February 1957. Harmer spun his way to record books in the second innings of the final Test, picking up six for 16, as Australia failed to chase 288 on the final day. The visitors were bowled out for just 111. Shreyas Iyer Rises to 7th in T20Is India’s T20I captain Shreyas Iyer is among those who climbed up the T20I batting charts following the concluded series against New Zealand. After hitting a 50 in the fifth and final T20I in Hamilton, Iyer jumped two places to sit in the seventh spot in the updated rankings. New Zealand all-rounder Glenn Phillips, who won the Player of the Series award for scoring 341 runs in five T20Is, including a hundred and three fifties, also jumped 13 spots to 24th.

Mitchell Starc reclaims the No. 1 Test bowler spot in the latest ICC Rankings, while Shreyas Iyer and Glenn Phillips make significant gains in T20Is.&nbsp;

ICC Rankings: Mitchell Starc regains No. 1 Test bowler spot; Shreyas Iyer moves up to 7th in T20Is

Australia have rested the pace trio of Pat Cummins, Mitchell Starc and Josh Hazlewood for the three-match ODI series against England, while including fresh faces in the new-look white-ball squads picked on Monday (Nov 2). While exciting young quick Mahli Beardman and all-rounders Jack Edwards and Liam Scott have received call-ups, batting prospects Ollie Peake and Jake Fraser-McGurk were also included, as were wicketkeepers Lachlan Shaw and Sam Harper. Mitchell Marsh will captain both the ODI and T20I sides. &nbsp;"These ODI and T20 matches provide several players, many of whom have had opportunities on recent tours, with a great chance to further demonstrate their ability against very strong opposition," said chairman of selectors George Bailey. "They are good examples of players who have had an opportunity at the international level and have continued working on their game from what they learnt from those experiences," added Bailey.<h3>Fresh Faces for England ODIs</h3>Australia will play three home ODIs against England between November 13 and 18, followed by five T20Is. The series will give Australia's next generation a chance to stake their claims ahead of the 2027 World Cup in South Africa, Zimbabwe, and Namibia.&nbsp;Also read| <a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/aus-vs-sa-aussie-coach-mcdonald-says-have-to-reassess-belief-in-marnus-labuschagne-after-series-loss-1793591660546">AUS vs SA: Aussie coach McDonald says 'have to reassess' belief in Marnus Labuschagne after series loss</a> &nbsp;Meanwhile, the three veteran quicks featured in the recently concluded Test series against South Africa, which Australia lost 2-1. They will miss out on the home England series due to workload management. Fellow Test players Travis Head, Alex Carey, Matt Renshaw, Josh Inglis, Cooper Connolly and Cameron Green were named in the ODI squad, but will not play the T20Is. &nbsp;After the four-match Test series against New Zealand, Australia will travel to India for five Tests before hosting Test cricket's 150th anniversary clash against Ashes rivals England in Melbourne in March 2027. &nbsp;"We are in the middle of a highly demanding phase of our schedule," said Bailey, referring to Australia's Test players. “To manage this workload, each player's build-up to the New Zealand series will be carefully planned and focused on individual's physical and mental preparation.”&nbsp;Australia’s ODI Squad for England Series:&nbsp;&nbsp;Mitchell Marsh (captain), Xavier Bartlett, Mahli Beardman, Alex Carey, Cooper Connolly, Jack Edwards, Cameron Green, Travis Head, Josh Inglis, Spencer Johnson, Ollie Peake, Matt Renshaw, Liam Scott, Adam Zampa &nbsp;Australia’s T20I Squad for England Series:&nbsp; &nbsp;Mitchell Marsh (captain), Xavier Bartlett, Mahli Beardman, Nikhil Chaudhary, Tim David, Joel Davies, Jack Edwards, Nathan Ellis, Jake Fraser-McGurk, Sam Harper, Spencer Johnson, Mitch Owen, Lachlan Shaw, Adam Zampa&nbsp;(With inputs from AFP)

Australia have rested pace stars Pat Cummins, Mitchell Starc, and Josh Hazlewood for the upcoming home white-ball series against England, handing call-ups to fresh talent.

Australia have rested the pace trio of Pat Cummins, Mitchell Starc and Josh Hazlewood for the three-match ODI series against England, while including fresh faces in the new-look white-ball squads picked on Monday (Nov 2). While exciting young quick Mahli Beardman and all-rounders Jack Edwards and Liam Scott have received call-ups, batting prospects Ollie Peake and Jake Fraser-McGurk were also included, as were wicketkeepers Lachlan Shaw and Sam Harper. Mitchell Marsh will captain both the ODI and T20I sides. "These ODI and T20 matches provide several players, many of whom have had opportunities on recent tours, with a great chance to further demonstrate their ability against very strong opposition," said chairman of selectors George Bailey. "They are good examples of players who have had an opportunity at the international level and have continued working on their game from what they learnt from those experiences," added Bailey. Fresh Faces for England ODIs Australia will play three home ODIs against England between November 13 and 18, followed by five T20Is. The series will give Australia's next generation a chance to stake their claims ahead of the 2027 World Cup in South Africa, Zimbabwe, and Namibia. Also read| AUS vs SA: Aussie coach McDonald says 'have to reassess' belief in Marnus Labuschagne after series loss Meanwhile, the three veteran quicks featured in the recently concluded Test series against South Africa, which Australia lost 2-1. They will miss out on the home England series due to workload management. Fellow Test players Travis Head, Alex Carey, Matt Renshaw, Josh Inglis, Cooper Connolly and Cameron Green were named in the ODI squad, but will not play the T20Is. After the four-match Test series against New Zealand, Australia will travel to India for five Tests before hosting Test cricket's 150th anniversary clash against Ashes rivals England in Melbourne in March 2027. "We are in the middle of a highly demanding phase of our schedule," said Bailey, referring to Australia's Test players. “To manage this workload, each player's build-up to the New Zealand series will be carefully planned and focused on individual's physical and mental preparation.” Australia’s ODI Squad for England Series: Mitchell Marsh (captain), Xavier Bartlett, Mahli Beardman, Alex Carey, Cooper Connolly, Jack Edwards, Cameron Green, Travis Head, Josh Inglis, Spencer Johnson, Ollie Peake, Matt Renshaw, Liam Scott, Adam Zampa Australia’s T20I Squad for England Series: Mitchell Marsh (captain), Xavier Bartlett, Mahli Beardman, Nikhil Chaudhary, Tim David, Joel Davies, Jack Edwards, Nathan Ellis, Jake Fraser-McGurk, Sam Harper, Spencer Johnson, Mitch Owen, Lachlan Shaw, Adam Zampa (With inputs from AFP)

Australia have rested pace stars Pat Cummins, Mitchell Starc, and Josh Hazlewood for the upcoming home white-ball series against England, handing call-ups to fresh talent.

Cummins, Starc and Hazlewood rested for England ODIs as Australia pick fresh faces; check full squads

Australia's chances of winning their series against world Test champions South Africa soared on the third day of the decider against South Africa at Newlands on Thursday. South Africa were reeling at 140 for four at the close, just 40 runs ahead with six wickets remaining.Also Read - <a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/ind-vs-nz-prasidh-krishna-ruled-out-odi-series-auqib-nabi-replacement-1793212894681">Prasidh Krishna ruled out of New Zealand ODIs as BCCI pick replacement</a>"It's really satisfying," said Australian centurion Josh Inglis, singling out Nathan Lyon's dismissal of South African captain Temba Bavuma in the penultimate over of the day.Bavuma had battled for almost three hours, scoring 35, before he tried to whip a ball from off-spinner Lyon through midwicket. The ball spun sharply and hit the stumps."I think we controlled the tempo really well in that last session," said Inglis of a period in which South Africa scored only 87 runs in 34 overs."Although they were playing well, they weren't really getting away from us. I thought Gaz (Lyon) bowled brilliantly and looked threatening the whole time."When you work for a couple of hours and get the rewards right at the end, it's really satisfying," said Inglis.South African off-spinner Simon Harmer, who bowled 37 overs and took four for 104 in Australia's second innings, said spin was playing an increasing role in the series-deciding contest between the world's two leading Test teams."If you look at how the wicket changed from this morning to this evening, it's been quite a dramatic change. I think Mitchell Starc does a pretty good job of churning up the wicket (with footmarks from his follow through as a left-arm bowler). So yeah, I definitely think that spin is probably going to come into it a lot more than it has in the first two-and-a-half days."Harmer said the remaining South African batsmen could not afford to look too far ahead in terms of trying to post a total that would give them a chance.Although Lyon had to wait until late in the day, he posed a significant threat as he sent down 14 overs, finishing with one for 31.But it was fast bowlers Starc and Josh Hazlewood who made the initial inroads.Starc, who took six for 72 in the first innings, again struck crucial blows, dismissing Aiden Markram and Marques Ackerman while Hazlewood claimed the wicket of David Bedingham, out hooking for the second time in the match.Inglis earlier completed his second Test century, scoring 102 before Australia were bowled out for 429 after starting the day on 330 for four. He told journalists that he only found out he was playing when Steve Smith ruled himself out with a neck injury on the morning of the match.

South Africa were reeling at 140 for four at the close, just 40 runs ahead with six wickets remaining.

Australia's chances of winning their series against world Test champions South Africa soared on the third day of the decider against South Africa at Newlands on Thursday. South Africa were reeling at 140 for four at the close, just 40 runs ahead with six wickets remaining. Also Read - Prasidh Krishna ruled out of New Zealand ODIs as BCCI pick replacement "It's really satisfying," said Australian centurion Josh Inglis, singling out Nathan Lyon's dismissal of South African captain Temba Bavuma in the penultimate over of the day. Bavuma had battled for almost three hours, scoring 35, before he tried to whip a ball from off-spinner Lyon through midwicket. The ball spun sharply and hit the stumps. "I think we controlled the tempo really well in that last session," said Inglis of a period in which South Africa scored only 87 runs in 34 overs. "Although they were playing well, they weren't really getting away from us. I thought Gaz (Lyon) bowled brilliantly and looked threatening the whole time. "When you work for a couple of hours and get the rewards right at the end, it's really satisfying," said Inglis. South African off-spinner Simon Harmer, who bowled 37 overs and took four for 104 in Australia's second innings, said spin was playing an increasing role in the series-deciding contest between the world's two leading Test teams. "If you look at how the wicket changed from this morning to this evening, it's been quite a dramatic change. I think Mitchell Starc does a pretty good job of churning up the wicket (with footmarks from his follow through as a left-arm bowler). So yeah, I definitely think that spin is probably going to come into it a lot more than it has in the first two-and-a-half days." Harmer said the remaining South African batsmen could not afford to look too far ahead in terms of trying to post a total that would give them a chance. Although Lyon had to wait until late in the day, he posed a significant threat as he sent down 14 overs, finishing with one for 31. But it was fast bowlers Starc and Josh Hazlewood who made the initial inroads. Starc, who took six for 72 in the first innings, again struck crucial blows, dismissing Aiden Markram and Marques Ackerman while Hazlewood claimed the wicket of David Bedingham, out hooking for the second time in the match. Inglis earlier completed his second Test century, scoring 102 before Australia were bowled out for 429 after starting the day on 330 for four. He told journalists that he only found out he was playing when Steve Smith ruled himself out with a neck injury on the morning of the match.

South Africa were reeling at 140 for four at the close, just 40 runs ahead with six wickets remaining.

Australia firmly in command of Newlands Test against South Africa

South Africa were in a dominant position at the end of the first session on Day 1 (Oct 27) of the third and final Test of the series against Australia at Newlands, Cape Town, before it all went wrong. The hosts were bowled out for 329 after being 158/0 at lunch, leaving opener Marques Ackerman, who top-scored with 95 off 94 balls, questioning the decision to continue playing late in the evening. A total of 82.3 overs were bowled, and play ended right after South Africa were bowled out, with Aussie pacer Mitchell Starc taking 6/72. South Africa lost four wickets for 81 runs in the second session and remaining six wickets for 108 runs in the final session.<h2>Opener Ackerman questions decision to continue play after SA let go of advantage</h2>Speaking after the day's play, Ackerman, who gave South Africa a flying start with Aiden Markram (78) as the duo added 158 runs for the opening wicket, including 140 in the first session, said: "The second new ball swung more than the first one, probably because the sun was out, but when the clouds came over, it was dark and tricky out there with the second new ball. It's a pity we didn't come off for bad light, I think."Also Read - <a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/yuvraj-singh-mocks-abhishek-sharma-35-ball-hundred-12-ball-fifty-record-ind-vs-nz-1793120880647">'You Still Can't...': Yuvraj mocks Abhishek after 35-ball 100 in 3rd T20I vs NZ</a>Starc was the wrecker-in-chief for Australia, with South Africa losing its last four wickets for just two runs as it went from 327/6 to 329 all out in the space of 13 balls, late in the evening with the new ball.<h2>Starc finds rhythm in otherwise poor tour</h2>Starc had taken only six wickets in the previous two Tests, which is low by his standards, but he turned up the heat on Day 1 of the final Test. Talking after the day's play, Starc admitted to feeling like he was searching for something that wasn't there and said: "I was probably searching for a feeling that I probably didn't need to. If I just switched my brain off, I might be right."With the series poised at 1-1, the rest of the four days are expected to bring good cricket between the top two Test sides.&nbsp;

South Africa squandered a strong start on Day 1 of the final Test against Australia at Newlands. From 158/0, they were bowled out for 329, undone by Mitchell Starc’s 6/72 in dark late-evening conditions.

South Africa were in a dominant position at the end of the first session on Day 1 (Oct 27) of the third and final Test of the series against Australia at Newlands, Cape Town, before it all went wrong. The hosts were bowled out for 329 after being 158/0 at lunch, leaving opener Marques Ackerman, who top-scored with 95 off 94 balls, questioning the decision to continue playing late in the evening. A total of 82.3 overs were bowled, and play ended right after South Africa were bowled out, with Aussie pacer Mitchell Starc taking 6/72. South Africa lost four wickets for 81 runs in the second session and remaining six wickets for 108 runs in the final session. Opener Ackerman questions decision to continue play after SA let go of advantage Speaking after the day's play, Ackerman, who gave South Africa a flying start with Aiden Markram (78) as the duo added 158 runs for the opening wicket, including 140 in the first session, said: "The second new ball swung more than the first one, probably because the sun was out, but when the clouds came over, it was dark and tricky out there with the second new ball. It's a pity we didn't come off for bad light, I think." Also Read - 'You Still Can't...': Yuvraj mocks Abhishek after 35-ball 100 in 3rd T20I vs NZ Starc was the wrecker-in-chief for Australia, with South Africa losing its last four wickets for just two runs as it went from 327/6 to 329 all out in the space of 13 balls, late in the evening with the new ball. Starc finds rhythm in otherwise poor tour Starc had taken only six wickets in the previous two Tests, which is low by his standards, but he turned up the heat on Day 1 of the final Test. Talking after the day's play, Starc admitted to feeling like he was searching for something that wasn't there and said: "I was probably searching for a feeling that I probably didn't need to. If I just switched my brain off, I might be right." With the series poised at 1-1, the rest of the four days are expected to bring good cricket between the top two Test sides.

South Africa squandered a strong start on Day 1 of the final Test against Australia at Newlands. From 158/0, they were bowled out for 329, undone by Mitchell Starc’s 6/72 in dark late-evening conditions.

SA vs AUS, 3rd Test: Protea opener Ackerman questions continuing play as SA lose advantage

Mitchell Starc led Australia’s brilliant fightback on the first day of the third Test against South Africa in Cape Town. Starc finished with six wickets for 72, dismissing the Proteas for 329 shortly before stumps on Tuesday (Oct 27) at Newlands. &nbsp;South Africa raced to 140 for no loss at lunch on the opening day after being sent in. The openers Aiden Markram and Marques Ackerman punished the Aussie quicks, including Starc, with the left-arm seamer conceding 39 runs in his first seven overs. However, it was his spell late in the day that triggered South Africa’s collapse, as they lost their last four wickets for just two runs. "We probably expected more out of the wicket," said Starc. "It was quite slow, with tennis ball bounce. They came at us hard. &nbsp;"We didn't have our best stuff in the first two hours, but the last two sessions were right up there. It's what we expect from this group. We had a reset at lunch and just tried to change the momentum in the field."&nbsp;Also read| <a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/sl-vs-pak-lahore-odi-madushanka-five-wicket-haul-sri-lanka-reach-tri-series-final-england-out-1793107033535">Lahore ODI: Sri Lanka crush Pakistan to qualify for tri-series final; England knocked out</a> &nbsp;Ackerman, playing his second Test, was the aggressor of the two, as he whacked Starc for four fours in an over, setting the tone for the hosts. Quickly racing to his 90s, Ackerman danced down the track to Nathan Lyon, only for the veteran spinner to outfox him and dismiss him for 95. &nbsp;South Africa lost five wickets in the second session, including captain Temba Bavuma on a three-ball duck.&nbsp;&nbsp;Starc accounted for David Bedingham for 50 before returning to tear into South Africa’s tail and pick up a memorable six-wicket haul. Starting with Ryan Rickelton, Starc’s banana swing trapped him in front of the stumps before dismissing Marco Jansen next and the two seamers Gerald Coetzee and Kagiso Rabada on zero.

Mitchell Starc claimed 6/72 to spark a dramatic South Africa collapse as Australia fought back to bowl out the Proteas for 329 on Day 1 of the third Test in Cape Town.

Mitchell Starc led Australia’s brilliant fightback on the first day of the third Test against South Africa in Cape Town. Starc finished with six wickets for 72, dismissing the Proteas for 329 shortly before stumps on Tuesday (Oct 27) at Newlands. South Africa raced to 140 for no loss at lunch on the opening day after being sent in. The openers Aiden Markram and Marques Ackerman punished the Aussie quicks, including Starc, with the left-arm seamer conceding 39 runs in his first seven overs. However, it was his spell late in the day that triggered South Africa’s collapse, as they lost their last four wickets for just two runs. "We probably expected more out of the wicket," said Starc. "It was quite slow, with tennis ball bounce. They came at us hard. "We didn't have our best stuff in the first two hours, but the last two sessions were right up there. It's what we expect from this group. We had a reset at lunch and just tried to change the momentum in the field." Also read| Lahore ODI: Sri Lanka crush Pakistan to qualify for tri-series final; England knocked out Ackerman, playing his second Test, was the aggressor of the two, as he whacked Starc for four fours in an over, setting the tone for the hosts. Quickly racing to his 90s, Ackerman danced down the track to Nathan Lyon, only for the veteran spinner to outfox him and dismiss him for 95. South Africa lost five wickets in the second session, including captain Temba Bavuma on a three-ball duck. Starc accounted for David Bedingham for 50 before returning to tear into South Africa’s tail and pick up a memorable six-wicket haul. Starting with Ryan Rickelton, Starc’s banana swing trapped him in front of the stumps before dismissing Marco Jansen next and the two seamers Gerald Coetzee and Kagiso Rabada on zero.

Mitchell Starc claimed 6/72 to spark a dramatic South Africa collapse as Australia fought back to bowl out the Proteas for 329 on Day 1 of the third Test in Cape Town.

Mitchell Starc leads Australia’s fightback with six-wicket haul on day 1 of Cape Town Test

Ace Australian quick Mitchell Starc entered the top-10 list of highest Test wicket-takers during the concluded second Test against Bangladesh in Mackay. Alongside veteran off-spinner Nathan Lyon, the pair are now the only active cricketers on the elite list. &nbsp;It doesn't happen often, though, that two amongst the highest Test wicket-takers belong to the same country and are playing together. Pairs including Glenn McGrath and Shane Warne, Anil Kumble and Harbhajan Singh and even James Anderson and Stuart Broad have been part of this elite list, with Starc and Lyon possibly being the last.&nbsp;Also read| <a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/australia-vs-bangladesh-2nd-test-mackay-750-balls-starc-1787466121045">Mackay Test: Australia crush Bangladesh by an innings and 51 runs in second-shortest match Down Under</a> &nbsp;Starc, 36 and Lyon, 38, are two Test veterans of Australian cricket, having picked up 445 and 571 wickets, respectively. While Lyon’s majestic tally places him in sixth place, Starc is currently 10th on the list. The two made their Test debuts in the same year (2011) and have played over 100 Tests each.&nbsp; &nbsp;Meanwhile, for Lyon to break into the top-five all-time highest wicket-takers in Tests, he must pick 34 more wickets to surpass former England quick Stuart Broad. Starc, however, is far from Courtney Walsh’s tally of 519 Test wickets, and in all probability, would remain the 10th highest Test wicket-taker for some time. &nbsp;Here are four reasons why Test cricket might never see a bowling pair amongst the top-10 wicket-takers in this format playing together –<h3>Workload Management and Early Retirement –</h3>The new-age cricketers have often prioritised lucrative white-ball T20 leagues over Test cricket, with workload management and injuries drastically shortening their long-form careers before they reach top-10 tallies. With so much cricket being played worldwide, and the emergence of franchise cricket, players have been forced to choose less consuming options.<h3>Specialisation over Longevity –</h3>Gone are those days when a team’s premier bowler or a bowling pair used to feature in every cricket match, regardless of the format and deliver for the team unless an injury forced them out. Nowadays, with an increasing number of matches, compounded by franchise cricket, cricket boards, selection committees and team management are left with no options but to pick and play players format-wise. &nbsp;Such factors make it nearly impossible for any modern-day player to play 80+ Tests, usually required to pick 400 or more Test wickets.<h3>Fewer Test Matches -</h3>Not many teams besides the Big Three: India, Australia and England, play many Test series consisting of three or more matches, which further reduces options from other countries despite potential. Countries known for producing world-class bowlers, including South Africa, Pakistan, New Zealand and even the West Indies, now feature in more two-match Test series, also against the Big Three.<h3>The Rare Coincidence of Alignment -</h3>In 149 years of Test cricket history, only three distinct eras involving eight legendary bowlers have played for the same country, at the same time, and still made it to the list of top-10 most Test wicket-takers. Thus, having a world-class pacer in Starc and a premier spinner in Lyon remain fit for over a decade, and complement each other's workloads, is a statistical anomaly in modern cricket.

With Mitchell Starc joining Nathan Lyon in the top 10 all-time Test wicket-takers, explore 4 reasons why cricket may never see another active bowling pair like them. 

Ace Australian quick Mitchell Starc entered the top-10 list of highest Test wicket-takers during the concluded second Test against Bangladesh in Mackay. Alongside veteran off-spinner Nathan Lyon, the pair are now the only active cricketers on the elite list. It doesn't happen often, though, that two amongst the highest Test wicket-takers belong to the same country and are playing together. Pairs including Glenn McGrath and Shane Warne, Anil Kumble and Harbhajan Singh and even James Anderson and Stuart Broad have been part of this elite list, with Starc and Lyon possibly being the last. Also read| Mackay Test: Australia crush Bangladesh by an innings and 51 runs in second-shortest match Down Under Starc, 36 and Lyon, 38, are two Test veterans of Australian cricket, having picked up 445 and 571 wickets, respectively. While Lyon’s majestic tally places him in sixth place, Starc is currently 10th on the list. The two made their Test debuts in the same year (2011) and have played over 100 Tests each. Meanwhile, for Lyon to break into the top-five all-time highest wicket-takers in Tests, he must pick 34 more wickets to surpass former England quick Stuart Broad. Starc, however, is far from Courtney Walsh’s tally of 519 Test wickets, and in all probability, would remain the 10th highest Test wicket-taker for some time. Here are four reasons why Test cricket might never see a bowling pair amongst the top-10 wicket-takers in this format playing together – Workload Management and Early Retirement – The new-age cricketers have often prioritised lucrative white-ball T20 leagues over Test cricket, with workload management and injuries drastically shortening their long-form careers before they reach top-10 tallies. With so much cricket being played worldwide, and the emergence of franchise cricket, players have been forced to choose less consuming options. Specialisation over Longevity – Gone are those days when a team’s premier bowler or a bowling pair used to feature in every cricket match, regardless of the format and deliver for the team unless an injury forced them out. Nowadays, with an increasing number of matches, compounded by franchise cricket, cricket boards, selection committees and team management are left with no options but to pick and play players format-wise. Such factors make it nearly impossible for any modern-day player to play 80+ Tests, usually required to pick 400 or more Test wickets. Fewer Test Matches - Not many teams besides the Big Three: India, Australia and England, play many Test series consisting of three or more matches, which further reduces options from other countries despite potential. Countries known for producing world-class bowlers, including South Africa, Pakistan, New Zealand and even the West Indies, now feature in more two-match Test series, also against the Big Three. The Rare Coincidence of Alignment - In 149 years of Test cricket history, only three distinct eras involving eight legendary bowlers have played for the same country, at the same time, and still made it to the list of top-10 most Test wicket-takers. Thus, having a world-class pacer in Starc and a premier spinner in Lyon remain fit for over a decade, and complement each other's workloads, is a statistical anomaly in modern cricket.

With Mitchell Starc joining Nathan Lyon in the top 10 all-time Test wicket-takers, explore 4 reasons why cricket may never see another active bowling pair like them.&nbsp;

Starc, Lyon are last active top-10 Test bowlers: 4 reasons it won't happen again

Mitchell Starc was again on a hat-trick in Bangladesh’s second innings on day two of the ongoing second Test in Mackay after Shoriful Islam’s career-best figures of 7/48 rattled Australia on 210. While tailender Nathan Lyon remained unbeaten on 32 off 64 balls, Cameron Green departed on 67 to Shoriful before Taijul Islam wrapped up the innings with Josh Hazlewood’s dismissal. Leading by 146 runs, Australia needed early wickets to push Bangladesh’s backs against the wall, and they turned to their veteran quick Starc, who picked up two wickets on two balls. Captain Pat Cummins bagged one as Bangladesh went to lunch for 39 for three, trailing by 107 runs. &nbsp;Starc was once again on a roll early into Bangladesh’s second innings, as he picked up his first wicket in his second over, removing opener Shadman Islam on one, caught at point. His next wicket was Bangladesh’s batting mainstay Mominul Haque, who left an incoming delivery from Starc and was out clean bowled on a first-ball duck. Bangladesh was 5/2 inside the third over.&nbsp;Starc on a Hat-trick, Again! WATCH -

<blockquote class="twitter-tweet">On a hat-trick AGAIN for the second time in two days 🤯<a href="https://x.com/hashtag/PlayoftheDay?src=hash&amp;ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#PlayoftheDay</a> | <a href="https://x.com/nrmainsurance?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">@NRMAInsurance</a> | <a href="https://x.com/hashtag/AUSvBAN?src=hash&amp;ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#AUSvBAN</a> <a href="https://t.co/9VNCPWLq5x">pic.twitter.com/9VNCPWLq5x</a>&mdash; cricket.com.au (@cricketcomau) <a href="https://x.com/cricketcomau/status/2091336814556545153?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">August 23, 2026</a></blockquote> <script async src="https://platform.x.com/widgets.js" charset="utf-8"></script>

While skipper Najmul Hossain Shanto did try to up the ante by playing some strokes, Cummins' steep bouncer in his first over accounted for Tanzid Hasan, caught at fine leg on nine. Shanto and veteran Mushfiqur Rahim were at the crease before lunch was taken on day two. Lyon bowled one over, while Hazlewood went wicketless for four runs in his three overs earlier.&nbsp;Also read| <a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/aus-vs-ban-2nd-test-day-1-report-18-wickets-starc-shoriful-six-fors-1787389408327">18 Wickets on Day 1 in Mackay: Starc, Shoriful claim six-fors as Australia lead by 101</a><h2>Mackay belongs to left-arm quicks</h2>Day one was all about the two left-arm pacers, Starc and Shoriful, who returned with six wickets each in their respective outings. While Starc owned the first half of the day with his record-breaking 6/12 in the first innings, Shoriful left the Aussie camp stunned with his six-wicket haul, including Travis Head, Marnus Labuschagne and Steve Smith.&nbsp; &nbsp;On day two, his in-swinger dismissed Green, as the Bangladeshi quick bagged his best Test figures.

Shoriful Islam’s historic 7/48 bowled Australia out for 210 in Mackay, but Mitchell Starc’s quick double strike pushed Bangladesh to 39/3 on Day 2.

Mitchell Starc was again on a hat-trick in Bangladesh’s second innings on day two of the ongoing second Test in Mackay after Shoriful Islam’s career-best figures of 7/48 rattled Australia on 210. While tailender Nathan Lyon remained unbeaten on 32 off 64 balls, Cameron Green departed on 67 to Shoriful before Taijul Islam wrapped up the innings with Josh Hazlewood’s dismissal. Leading by 146 runs, Australia needed early wickets to push Bangladesh’s backs against the wall, and they turned to their veteran quick Starc, who picked up two wickets on two balls. Captain Pat Cummins bagged one as Bangladesh went to lunch for 39 for three, trailing by 107 runs. Starc was once again on a roll early into Bangladesh’s second innings, as he picked up his first wicket in his second over, removing opener Shadman Islam on one, caught at point. His next wicket was Bangladesh’s batting mainstay Mominul Haque, who left an incoming delivery from Starc and was out clean bowled on a first-ball duck. Bangladesh was 5/2 inside the third over. Starc on a Hat-trick, Again! WATCH -

Shoriful Islam’s historic 7/48 bowled Australia out for 210 in Mackay, but Mitchell Starc’s quick double strike pushed Bangladesh to 39/3 on Day 2.

Mackay Test: Australia rolled for 210 as Shoriful takes 7/48; Starc strikes back on Day 2

From Mitchell Starc to Pat Cummins, here's a look at the top five active bowlers with most wickets in Test cricket. This list also includes Nathan Lyon, Kagiso Rabada and Ravindra Jadeja

From Mitchell Starc to Pat Cummins, here's a look at the top five active bowlers with most wickets in Test cricket. This list also includes Nathan Lyon, Kagiso Rabada and Ravindra Jadeja

Meet top 5 active bowlers with most Test wickets, check who tops list

It was a historic day for left-arm fast bowlers on the opening day of the Darwin Test, as Australia’s Mitchell Starc surpassed Sri Lanka legend Rangana Herath to become the leading wicket-taker among left-arm bowlers in Test cricket history. Starc reached the landmark by dismissing Shadnan Islam for his 434th Test wicket and moved past Herath’s tally of 433 wickets to claim the record.&nbsp;Australia, meanwhile, struggled in the first innings after choosing to bat first, as they were bowled out for just 198, their lowest-ever Test total against Bangladesh. Their previous lowest was 217 in Mirpur in 2017.&nbsp;Australia started with a 45-run opening stand between Travis Head (22) and Jake Weatherald (23), but soon lost four wickets for 74 runs. Steve Smith tried to steady the innings with a fighting 71 off 109 balls, including seven fours and a six, but Bangladesh bowlers continued to dominate.&nbsp;Hasan Mahmud was the standout bowler for Bangladesh, as he picked up six wickets for 55 runs in 17 overs. His figures became the best-ever by a Bangladeshi bowler against Australia, surpassing Mohammad Rafique’s 5/62 in Fatullah in 2006.&nbsp;Also Read - <a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/afg-vs-ire-sediqullah-atal-scripts-history-with-highest-odi-score-on-birthday-1786614540284">AFG vs IRE: Sediqullah Atal scripts history with highest ODI score on birthday</a>&nbsp;Hasan now has three five-wicket hauls in 15 Tests, the second-most by a Bangladesh fast bowler. Only Shahadat Hossain, with four five-wicket hauls, is ahead of him.&nbsp;&nbsp;Also Read - <a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/ban-vs-aus-1st-test-mahmud-leads-bangladesh-s-dominance-over-australia-on-day-1-1786611677784">BAN vs AUS 1st Test: Mahmud leads Bangladesh's dominance over Australia on Day 1</a>&nbsp;Meanwhile, Taskin Ahmed also reached a major milestone, completing 300 international wickets with figures of 2/55 to become only the sixth Bangladeshi bowler to achieve the feat. The right-arm pacer now has 300 wickets in 204 matches, including 13 four-wicket hauls and three five-wicket hauls.&nbsp;Only Shakib Al Hasan (712), Mashrafe Mortaza (389), Mustafizur Rahman (384), Mehidy Hasan Miraz (369) and Taijul Islam (302) have more international wickets for Bangladesh than Taskin.<h3>Left-arm bowlers with most wickets in Test cricket</h3>

<figure class="table"><table><thead><tr><th>Rank</th><th>Name</th><th>Team</th><th>Tests</th><th>Wicket</th></tr></thead><tbody><tr><td>1</td><td>Mitchell Starc</td><td>Australia</td><td>106*</td><td>434</td></tr><tr><td>2</td><td>Rangana Herath</td><td>Sri Lanka</td><td>93</td><td>433</td></tr><tr><td>3</td><td>Wasim Akram</td><td>Pakistan</td><td>104</td><td>414</td></tr><tr><td>4</td><td>Daniel Vettori</td><td>New Zealand</td><td>113</td><td>362</td></tr><tr><td>5</td><td>Chaminda Vaas</td><td>Sri Lanka</td><td>111</td><td>355</td></tr></tbody></table></figure>

With inputs from agencies

The Australian pace great took his 434th Test wicket in Darwin, surpassing Sri Lanka’s Rangana Herath to become the highest wicket-taking left-arm bowler in Test cricket.

It was a historic day for left-arm fast bowlers on the opening day of the Darwin Test, as Australia’s Mitchell Starc surpassed Sri Lanka legend Rangana Herath to become the leading wicket-taker among left-arm bowlers in Test cricket history. Starc reached the landmark by dismissing Shadnan Islam for his 434th Test wicket and moved past Herath’s tally of 433 wickets to claim the record. Australia, meanwhile, struggled in the first innings after choosing to bat first, as they were bowled out for just 198, their lowest-ever Test total against Bangladesh. Their previous lowest was 217 in Mirpur in 2017. Australia started with a 45-run opening stand between Travis Head (22) and Jake Weatherald (23), but soon lost four wickets for 74 runs. Steve Smith tried to steady the innings with a fighting 71 off 109 balls, including seven fours and a six, but Bangladesh bowlers continued to dominate. Hasan Mahmud was the standout bowler for Bangladesh, as he picked up six wickets for 55 runs in 17 overs. His figures became the best-ever by a Bangladeshi bowler against Australia, surpassing Mohammad Rafique’s 5/62 in Fatullah in 2006. Also Read - AFG vs IRE: Sediqullah Atal scripts history with highest ODI score on birthday Hasan now has three five-wicket hauls in 15 Tests, the second-most by a Bangladesh fast bowler. Only Shahadat Hossain, with four five-wicket hauls, is ahead of him. Also Read - BAN vs AUS 1st Test: Mahmud leads Bangladesh's dominance over Australia on Day 1 Meanwhile, Taskin Ahmed also reached a major milestone, completing 300 international wickets with figures of 2/55 to become only the sixth Bangladeshi bowler to achieve the feat. The right-arm pacer now has 300 wickets in 204 matches, including 13 four-wicket hauls and three five-wicket hauls. Only Shakib Al Hasan (712), Mashrafe Mortaza (389), Mustafizur Rahman (384), Mehidy Hasan Miraz (369) and Taijul Islam (302) have more international wickets for Bangladesh than Taskin. Left-arm bowlers with most wickets in Test cricket

The Australian pace great took his 434th Test wicket in Darwin, surpassing Sri Lanka’s Rangana Herath to become the highest wicket-taking left-arm bowler in Test cricket.

Mitchell Starc scripts history, becomes Test cricket’s most successful left-arm bowler

From Pat Cummins to Jasprit Bumrah, here's a look at the top five bowlers in latest ICC Test rankings 2026. This list also includes Matt Henry, Mitchell Starc and Marco Jansen

From Pat Cummins to Jasprit Bumrah, here's a look at the top five bowlers in latest ICC Test rankings 2026. This list also includes Matt Henry, Mitchell Starc and Marco Jansen

Meet top 5 bowlers in latest ICC Test rankings 2026 - check who sits at the top

Age doesn’t seem to be a problem for Mitchell Starc, Australian ODI captain Pat Cummins and Josh Hazlewood, the three pace veterans the Australia wish to have on board for their title defence in the 2027 ODI World Cup. The two-time ODI World Cup-winning trio would be entering the ‘concerned age’ bracket by the time the next showpiece event comes across, but Australian head coach Andrew McDonald is hopeful of them staying fit for the 14-team tournament. While the selectors have rested the pace attack for the away sub-continent ODI tours, the trio remain in reckoning for the packed calendar.&nbsp;“I think people look at the immediate games and go, 'Well, why aren't they playing there?'” McDonald said. “But if you actually work back from 2027 and look at what we've got coming up, this is the last significant break that we get to invest into their bodies to set themselves up to get all the way through to 2027. We are planning for them to be there in 2027.”&nbsp;Also read | <a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/they-are-attacking-my-friends-and-family-travis-head-wife-jessica-reveals-online-abuse-after-virat-kohli-spat-during-srh-vs-rcb-ipl-2026-playoffs-1779697330482">‘They are attacking my friends and family,' Travis Head’s wife reveals online abuse after Kohli spat</a> &nbsp;While McDonald expects that the roadmap to their title defence and managing their pace attack's workload is stiff to begin with, he believes that by providing them ample rest, despite their willingness to play, Australia can remain in the winning position. &nbsp;Adding that the three quicks were available for selection for the white-ball tours of Pakistan and Bangladesh, McDonald said that the CA, selectors and the management chose against picking them, saying they didn’t feel like ‘it’s the best time for them to play.’ &nbsp;"I think there needs to be a lot of trust in what we're doing to be able to get them there. It's going to be a significant challenge, in particular for our fantastic (sports science and medical) team, they've done a great job over a period of time," McDonald said. &nbsp;"I think there's almost a misconception that the players are sort of picking and choosing as to where they play and which series they play in. These decisions are made around the management of what is coming up with in the schedule - and they don't choose that. &nbsp;"We work with them on it ... those players want to play. We just don't feel like it's the best time for them to play," he added. &nbsp;Meanwhile, hailing the pair as robust but ‘oldies’ at the same time, the head coach reflected on their age reality and how Australia can benefit from their availability.&nbsp; &nbsp;"We are getting older, so that's going to create some different management challenges. They've been incredibly robust, a lot of those players, and a few have had a few recent (injury) pickups, so it's something that we need to invest a lot of time into,” he added.

"We are getting older." Australian head coach Andrew McDonald reveals the long-term blueprint to manage the veteran pace trio of Cummins, Starc, and Hazlewood through to the 2027 ODI World Cup.

Age doesn’t seem to be a problem for Mitchell Starc, Australian ODI captain Pat Cummins and Josh Hazlewood, the three pace veterans the Australia wish to have on board for their title defence in the 2027 ODI World Cup. The two-time ODI World Cup-winning trio would be entering the ‘concerned age’ bracket by the time the next showpiece event comes across, but Australian head coach Andrew McDonald is hopeful of them staying fit for the 14-team tournament. While the selectors have rested the pace attack for the away sub-continent ODI tours, the trio remain in reckoning for the packed calendar. “I think people look at the immediate games and go, 'Well, why aren't they playing there?'” McDonald said. “But if you actually work back from 2027 and look at what we've got coming up, this is the last significant break that we get to invest into their bodies to set themselves up to get all the way through to 2027. We are planning for them to be there in 2027.” Also read | ‘They are attacking my friends and family,' Travis Head’s wife reveals online abuse after Kohli spat While McDonald expects that the roadmap to their title defence and managing their pace attack's workload is stiff to begin with, he believes that by providing them ample rest, despite their willingness to play, Australia can remain in the winning position. Adding that the three quicks were available for selection for the white-ball tours of Pakistan and Bangladesh, McDonald said that the CA, selectors and the management chose against picking them, saying they didn’t feel like ‘it’s the best time for them to play.’ "I think there needs to be a lot of trust in what we're doing to be able to get them there. It's going to be a significant challenge, in particular for our fantastic (sports science and medical) team, they've done a great job over a period of time," McDonald said. "I think there's almost a misconception that the players are sort of picking and choosing as to where they play and which series they play in. These decisions are made around the management of what is coming up with in the schedule - and they don't choose that. "We work with them on it ... those players want to play. We just don't feel like it's the best time for them to play," he added. Meanwhile, hailing the pair as robust but ‘oldies’ at the same time, the head coach reflected on their age reality and how Australia can benefit from their availability. "We are getting older, so that's going to create some different management challenges. They've been incredibly robust, a lot of those players, and a few have had a few recent (injury) pickups, so it's something that we need to invest a lot of time into,” he added.

"We are getting older." Australian head coach Andrew McDonald reveals the long-term blueprint to manage the veteran pace trio of Cummins, Starc, and Hazlewood through to the 2027 ODI World Cup.

Age No Bar: Australia back veteran pace trio to lead 2027 World Cup title defence

KL Rahul struck 56 off 42 deliveries and Abishek Porel contributed a brisk 51 from 31 balls as Delhi Capitals chased down 194 with four balls to spare, defeating Rajasthan Royals by five wickets at the Arun Jaitley Stadium on Sunday (May 17). The win kept DC’s IPL 2026 playoff hopes alive, although their path to the top four remains uncertain.&nbsp;Delhi’s innings slowed down a bit after their openers got out, but captain Axar Patel once again handled the pressure well. Coming off a good performance against Punjab Kings in Dharamsala, he carried that confidence into the home match and played an important finishing role when it mattered most.&nbsp;With 19 runs required from the final 11 balls, impact substitute Ashutosh Sharma provided the perfect support, smashing 18 runs off only five deliveries to complete the chase. Axar remained unbeaten on 34 from 18 balls.&nbsp;For Rajasthan Royals, Brijesh Sharma and Jofra Archer claimed two wickets each, while Dasun Shanaka chipped in with one scalp.&nbsp;Also Read - <a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/jannik-sinner-wins-italian-open-title-completes-golden-masters-feat-1779042218384">Jannik Sinner wins Italian Open title, completes Golden Masters feat</a>&nbsp;Earlier in the match, Dhruv Jurel top-scored with 53 off 40 balls, while Riyan Parag hammered 51 from just 26 deliveries to help Rajasthan post 193/8 after being asked to bat first.&nbsp;&nbsp;Youngster Vaibhav Sooryavanshi also impressed with a rapid 46 off 21 balls.During the knock, the left-hander overtook Virat Kohli and Abhishek Sharma for the most sixes by an Indian batter in a single IPL season, reaching 43 maximums.&nbsp;&nbsp;Also Read - <a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/vaibhav-sooryavanshi-scripts-history-with-most-sixes-by-an-indian-in-an-ipl-season-1779030637530">Vaibhav Sooryavanshi makes history with most sixes by an Indian in an IPL season</a>&nbsp;Rajasthan looked set for a massive total at 161/2 before Mitchell Starc changed the momentum with a decisive three-wicket over. The left-arm pacer finished with figures of 4/40, while Madhav Tiwari contributed with 2/27.&nbsp;At present, Delhi Capitals are currently seventh on the points table with 12 points from 13 matches. Rajasthan Royals also have 12 points but dropped to sixth due to a low net run rate, while Chennai Super Kings sit fifth with the same tally.

KL Rahul (56 off 42) and Abishek Porel (51 off 31) struck fluent half-centuries as Delhi Capitals defeated Rajasthan Royals by five wickets at Arun Jaitley Stadium.

KL Rahul struck 56 off 42 deliveries and Abishek Porel contributed a brisk 51 from 31 balls as Delhi Capitals chased down 194 with four balls to spare, defeating Rajasthan Royals by five wickets at the Arun Jaitley Stadium on Sunday (May 17). The win kept DC’s IPL 2026 playoff hopes alive, although their path to the top four remains uncertain. Delhi’s innings slowed down a bit after their openers got out, but captain Axar Patel once again handled the pressure well. Coming off a good performance against Punjab Kings in Dharamsala, he carried that confidence into the home match and played an important finishing role when it mattered most. With 19 runs required from the final 11 balls, impact substitute Ashutosh Sharma provided the perfect support, smashing 18 runs off only five deliveries to complete the chase. Axar remained unbeaten on 34 from 18 balls. For Rajasthan Royals, Brijesh Sharma and Jofra Archer claimed two wickets each, while Dasun Shanaka chipped in with one scalp. Also Read - Jannik Sinner wins Italian Open title, completes Golden Masters feat Earlier in the match, Dhruv Jurel top-scored with 53 off 40 balls, while Riyan Parag hammered 51 from just 26 deliveries to help Rajasthan post 193/8 after being asked to bat first. Youngster Vaibhav Sooryavanshi also impressed with a rapid 46 off 21 balls.During the knock, the left-hander overtook Virat Kohli and Abhishek Sharma for the most sixes by an Indian batter in a single IPL season, reaching 43 maximums. Also Read - Vaibhav Sooryavanshi makes history with most sixes by an Indian in an IPL season Rajasthan looked set for a massive total at 161/2 before Mitchell Starc changed the momentum with a decisive three-wicket over. The left-arm pacer finished with figures of 4/40, while Madhav Tiwari contributed with 2/27. At present, Delhi Capitals are currently seventh on the points table with 12 points from 13 matches. Rajasthan Royals also have 12 points but dropped to sixth due to a low net run rate, while Chennai Super Kings sit fifth with the same tally.

KL Rahul (56 off 42) and Abishek Porel (51 off 31) struck fluent half-centuries as Delhi Capitals defeated Rajasthan Royals by five wickets at Arun Jaitley Stadium.

IPL 2026: Delhi Capitals strengthen playoff hopes with a five-wicket win over Rajasthan Royals

From Pat Cummins to Jasprit Bumrah, here's a look at the top five bowlers in latest ICC Test rankings 2026. This list also includes Matt Henry, Mitchell Starc and Noman Ali

From Pat Cummins to Jasprit Bumrah, here's a look at the top five bowlers in latest ICC Test rankings 2026. This list also includes Matt Henry, Mitchell Starc and Noman Ali

Top 5 bowlers in latest ICC Test rankings 2026 – check who’s on top

Delhi Capitals (DC) have been handed a timely boost in IPL 2026 with the arrival of Australian fast bowler Mitchell Starc, who has linked up with the squad after recovering from injury. The franchise shared the update on social media ahead of their upcoming clash against an in-form Punjab Kings (PBKS) in match 35 on Saturday (Apr 25) at the Arun Jaitley Stadium in Delhi. Despite rejoining the camp, Starc is unlikely to feature against PBKS and may instead target a return for DC’s game against Rajasthan Royals on May 1.&nbsp;The 36-year-old has been sidelined since late January following an intense Ashes campaign, where he was named Player of the Series after picking up 31 wickets at an average of 19.93.&nbsp;Also Read - <a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/virat-kohli-scripts-history-becomes-first-batter-in-ipl-to-achieve-this-record-1777096823136">Virat Kohli scripts history, becomes first batter in IPL to achieve THIS record</a>

<blockquote class="twitter-tweet">Worth the wait 💙❤️ Welcome back home, Tiger! 🐅 <a href="https://t.co/cbd5Adjzxo">pic.twitter.com/cbd5Adjzxo</a>&mdash; Delhi Capitals (@DelhiCapitals) <a href="https://twitter.com/DelhiCapitals/status/2047850581746942320?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">April 25, 2026</a></blockquote> <script async src="https://platform.twitter.com/widgets.js" charset="utf-8"></script>

Starc bowled more than 150 overs across five Tests before turning out in five matches for the Sydney Sixers in the Big Bash League. His most recent appearance came against the Perth Scorchers, where he injured his left shoulder and elbow while attempting a catch. Although he took time off in February, persistent discomfort upon resuming bowling delayed his IPL comeback.&nbsp;His return is expected to strengthen a Delhi Capitals side currently placed sixth in the IPL 2026 points table.&nbsp;&nbsp;Also Read - <a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/uefa-bans-benfica-s-gianluca-prestianni-for-six-games-for-discriminatory-conduct-during-real-madrid-clash-1777041674108">UEFA bans Benfica's Prestianni for six games for discriminatory conduct</a><h2>IPL 2026: Delhi Capitals Squad</h2>KL Rahul (wk), Prithvi Shaw, Abishek Porel, Axar Patel (c), Tristan Stubbs, Ashutosh Sharma, David Miller, Vipraj Nigam, Dushmantha Chameera, Kyle Jamieson, T. Natarajan, Lungi Ngidi, Mukesh Kumar, Kuldeep Yadav, Nitish Rana, Karun Nair, Pathum Nissanka, Sahil Parakh, Sameer Rizvi, Madhav Tiwari, Auqib Nabi Dar, Tripurana Vijay, Ajay Jadav Mandal and Mitchell Starc

Delhi Capitals will face in-form Punjab Kings (PBKS) in match 35 on Saturday (Apr 25) at the Arun Jaitley Stadium. PBKS will aim to extend their dominance, while DC will look to regain their winning momentum.

Delhi Capitals (DC) have been handed a timely boost in IPL 2026 with the arrival of Australian fast bowler Mitchell Starc, who has linked up with the squad after recovering from injury. The franchise shared the update on social media ahead of their upcoming clash against an in-form Punjab Kings (PBKS) in match 35 on Saturday (Apr 25) at the Arun Jaitley Stadium in Delhi. Despite rejoining the camp, Starc is unlikely to feature against PBKS and may instead target a return for DC’s game against Rajasthan Royals on May 1. The 36-year-old has been sidelined since late January following an intense Ashes campaign, where he was named Player of the Series after picking up 31 wickets at an average of 19.93. Also Read - Virat Kohli scripts history, becomes first batter in IPL to achieve THIS record

Delhi Capitals will face in-form Punjab Kings (PBKS) in match 35 on Saturday (Apr 25) at the Arun Jaitley Stadium. PBKS will aim to extend their dominance, while DC will look to regain their winning momentum.

IPL 2026 | Mitchell Starc joins DC camp ahead of PBKS clash, will he make the XI today?

Australian pace spearhead Mitchell Starc has reportedly received the green light from Cricket Australia to participate in the upcoming Indian Premier League (IPL) season, providing a major boost for the Delhi Capitals. The left-arm quick is expected to strengthen DC’s bowling attack with his express pace and experience in high-pressure T20 matches.


IPL: Mitchell Starc Gets Green Light from Cricket Australia for IPL; Big Boost for Delhi Capitals 

In a boost to Delhi Capitals, Australian pacer Mitchell Starc has been cleared by Cricket Australia to play the IPL 2026 after recovering from injuries. Strac is expected to link with the DC squad soon and is most likely to pay his first match for the franchise in the ongoing season on May 1. Strac has not played competitive cricket from late January this year when he helped Australia win home Ashes 4-1 against England. Starc was named Player of the Series for 31 wickets in 10 innings and immediately turned up for Sydney Sixes in Big Bash League (BBL) before being sidelined with injuries.<h2>When will Starc join Delhi Capitals?</h2>Having recovered from shoulder and elbow injuries, Starc is expected to fly out immediately and link up with the squad. He can play his first match in the IPL 2026 as soon as May 1. There were speculations when Starc didn't join DC at the start of the season which is clarified in a social medial post. His presence will definitely boost DC's strength which are struggling at the moment with three losses in last four matches after winning the first two games of the season. His fitness is also a sigh of relief for Cricket Australia which are scheduled to play 20 Tests over the next 18 months before ODI World Cup 2027 in October-November.<h2>How have DC performed in IPL 2026?</h2>Delhi started the season with a six-wicket victory against Lucknow Super Giants (LSG) in their season opener on April 1. In the next match on April 4, DC beat Mumbai Indians, also by six wickets. The Capitals then lost a thriller against Gujarat Titans on April 8 by one run. In the fourth match, Chennai Super Kings beat DC by 23 runs on April 11. DC managed to beat RCB by six wickets on April 18 before losing against SunRisers Hyderabad by 47 runs in their last match.They have two more matches this month before Starc could join them - against Punjab Kings on April 25 and against RCB on April 27.

Strac has not played competitive cricket from late January this year when he helped Australia win home Ashes 4-1 against England. He is expected to fly out soon and can play for DC as soon as May 1.

In a boost to Delhi Capitals, Australian pacer Mitchell Starc has been cleared by Cricket Australia to play the IPL 2026 after recovering from injuries. Strac is expected to link with the DC squad soon and is most likely to pay his first match for the franchise in the ongoing season on May 1. Strac has not played competitive cricket from late January this year when he helped Australia win home Ashes 4-1 against England. Starc was named Player of the Series for 31 wickets in 10 innings and immediately turned up for Sydney Sixes in Big Bash League (BBL) before being sidelined with injuries. When will Starc join Delhi Capitals? Having recovered from shoulder and elbow injuries, Starc is expected to fly out immediately and link up with the squad. He can play his first match in the IPL 2026 as soon as May 1. There were speculations when Starc didn't join DC at the start of the season which is clarified in a social medial post. His presence will definitely boost DC's strength which are struggling at the moment with three losses in last four matches after winning the first two games of the season. His fitness is also a sigh of relief for Cricket Australia which are scheduled to play 20 Tests over the next 18 months before ODI World Cup 2027 in October-November. How have DC performed in IPL 2026? Delhi started the season with a six-wicket victory against Lucknow Super Giants (LSG) in their season opener on April 1. In the next match on April 4, DC beat Mumbai Indians, also by six wickets. The Capitals then lost a thriller against Gujarat Titans on April 8 by one run. In the fourth match, Chennai Super Kings beat DC by 23 runs on April 11. DC managed to beat RCB by six wickets on April 18 before losing against SunRisers Hyderabad by 47 runs in their last match. They have two more matches this month before Starc could join them - against Punjab Kings on April 25 and against RCB on April 27.

Strac has not played competitive cricket from late January this year when he helped Australia win home Ashes 4-1 against England. Starc was named Player of the Series for 31 wickets in 10 innings and immediately turned up for Sydney Sixes in Big Bash League (BBL) before being sidelined.

IPL 2026 | Aussie speedster Mitchell Starc cleared by Cricket Australia to join Delhi Capitals

Several IPL franchises are concerned about the availability of their overseas stars, who could miss parts of the 2026 season or even the entire tournament due to various reasons. Mitchell Starc, Delhi Capitals’ pace spearhead, is also expected to miss the initial phase of the season, as Cricket Australia manages his workload. DC head coach Hemang Badani said the team is still unsure about Starc’s availability and is awaiting official clearance (NOC) from Cricket Australia before confirming anything.&nbsp;&nbsp;“We are waiting for an NOC from Cricket Australia, once we get that, then only we can say anything about Starc’s availability," Badani told reporters in New Delhi on Monday.&nbsp;Also Read - <a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/former-indian-captain-ms-dhoni-honours-t20-world-cup-winners-sanju-samson-shivam-dube-at-csk-event-1774253159771">Former Indian captain MS Dhoni honours T20 World Cup winners Sanju Samson, Shivam Dube at CSK event</a>&nbsp;Team director Venugopal Rao added that Starc’s fitness is also a concern, but they expect him to join once the clearance comes.&nbsp;&nbsp;“Starc will come, we just waiting for the NOC because his fitness is the concern. We are just waiting for it," he said.&nbsp;&nbsp;Th 36-year-old had a good last season, taking 14 wickets in 11 matches and was retained by the franchise after being bought for INR 11.75 crore in the 2025 auction. Delhi will start their IPL 2026 campaign against Lucknow Super Giants at Ekana Cricket Stadium on April 1.&nbsp;&nbsp;Also Read - <a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/fide-candidates-indian-grandmaster-koneru-humpy-withdraws-citing-personal-safety-and-well-being-1774244894966">India's Koneru Humpy withdraws from FIDE Candidates amid US-Israel-Iran war</a>&nbsp;Starc is not the only Australian player facing availability concerns, as Josh Hazlewood (Royal Challengers Bengaluru) and Pat Cummins (Sunrisers Hyderabad) are also expected to miss a few early matches. Cummins, who leads SRH, will be replaced as captain by Ishan Kishan during his absence. Meanwhile, Jack Edwards (SRH) and Nathan Ellis (Chennai Super Kings) are set to miss the entire season due to injuries.

Delhi Capitals (DC) will start their IPL 2026 campaign against Lucknow Super Giants (LSG) at Ekana Cricket Stadium on April 1. 

Several IPL franchises are concerned about the availability of their overseas stars, who could miss parts of the 2026 season or even the entire tournament due to various reasons. Mitchell Starc, Delhi Capitals’ pace spearhead, is also expected to miss the initial phase of the season, as Cricket Australia manages his workload. DC head coach Hemang Badani said the team is still unsure about Starc’s availability and is awaiting official clearance (NOC) from Cricket Australia before confirming anything. “We are waiting for an NOC from Cricket Australia, once we get that, then only we can say anything about Starc’s availability," Badani told reporters in New Delhi on Monday. Also Read - Former Indian captain MS Dhoni honours T20 World Cup winners Sanju Samson, Shivam Dube at CSK event Team director Venugopal Rao added that Starc’s fitness is also a concern, but they expect him to join once the clearance comes. “Starc will come, we just waiting for the NOC because his fitness is the concern. We are just waiting for it," he said. Th 36-year-old had a good last season, taking 14 wickets in 11 matches and was retained by the franchise after being bought for INR 11.75 crore in the 2025 auction. Delhi will start their IPL 2026 campaign against Lucknow Super Giants at Ekana Cricket Stadium on April 1. Also Read - India's Koneru Humpy withdraws from FIDE Candidates amid US-Israel-Iran war Starc is not the only Australian player facing availability concerns, as Josh Hazlewood (Royal Challengers Bengaluru) and Pat Cummins (Sunrisers Hyderabad) are also expected to miss a few early matches. Cummins, who leads SRH, will be replaced as captain by Ishan Kishan during his absence. Meanwhile, Jack Edwards (SRH) and Nathan Ellis (Chennai Super Kings) are set to miss the entire season due to injuries.

Delhi Capitals (DC) will start their IPL 2026 campaign against Lucknow Super Giants (LSG) at Ekana Cricket Stadium on April 1.&nbsp;

'Waiting for NOC from CA': Delhi Capitals on Mitchell Starc’s IPL 2026 availability

From Mitchell Starc to Matheesha Pathirana, here's a look at the five key players missing early IPL 2026 matches. This list also includes Pat Cummins, Josh Hazlewood and Lockie Ferguson

From Mitchell Starc to Matheesha Pathirana, here's a look at the five key players missing early IPL 2026 matches. This list also includes Pat Cummins, Josh Hazlewood and Lockie Ferguson.

From Mitchell Starc to Matheesha Pathirana, 5 key players missing early IPL 2026 matches

Star Australian pacer Mitchell Starc will miss the initial stage of IPL 2026, as reported by cricket.com.au, joining fellow Australians Josh Hazlewood and Pat Cummins, who will also not feature at the start of the tournament. According to the report, Cricket Australia is managing its key bowlers carefully due to an upcoming packed international schedule. From August, Australia’s Test team is expected to play up to 21 matches in a year, including important tours of South Africa, India and England, followed by the ICC ODI World Cup 2027. The return of these players will depend on how well they recover in the coming weeks.&nbsp;“Cricket Australia is taking a cautious approach with their star multi-format bowlers given what lies ahead: from August, the Test side will play up to 21 matches in a 12-month period, including legacy-defining tours of South Africa, India and England, before defending their ODI World Cup crown in Southern Africa in late 2027. The trio’s availability will depend on progress in their return to play protocols over the next few weeks," the report stated.&nbsp;Also Read - <a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/march-madness-watch-vcu-stuns-unc-thanks-to-3p-dagger-in-ot-by-terrence-hill-jr-1773976185584">March Madness | WATCH - VCU stuns UNC, thanks to 3P dagger in OT by Hill</a>&nbsp;Cummins, who leads Australia in Tests, played only one match in the 2025-26 The Ashes due to a back injury. Hazlewood, on the other hand, missed the entire series because of hamstring and Achilles issues. Both players also missed the T20 World Cup 2026, held in India and Sri Lanka.&nbsp;In Cummins’ absence, Ishan Kishan will lead Hyderabad at the start of the season, which begins on Mar 28.&nbsp;Another Australian pacer, Nathan Ellis, is ruled out of the IPL 2026 due to a hamstring injury. He had recovered earlier to play in the World Cup but got injured again during a domestic final in Hobart.&nbsp;Also Read - <a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/fifa-reprimands-israeli-football-association-for-breaching-anti-discrimination-objectives-1773971924922">FIFA reprimands Israeli Football for breaching anti-discrimination objectives</a>&nbsp;Young Australian bowler Jack Edwards will also miss IPL 2026 due to a foot injury. He had performed well in the Big Bash League, taking 19 wickets in 13 matches.&nbsp;Starc’s absence is a big setback for Delhi Capitals, as he is their lead bowler and picked up 14 wickets in 11 matches last season. In his absence, South African pacer Lungi Ngidi is expected to lead the bowling attack, with support from T. Natarajan, Auqib Nabi Dar, Kyle Jamieson and Dushmantha Chameera.

This decision comes ahead of a demanding year, as Australia’s Test side prepares for a heavy workload of up to 21 matches over the next 12 months starting in August.

Star Australian pacer Mitchell Starc will miss the initial stage of IPL 2026, as reported by cricket.com.au, joining fellow Australians Josh Hazlewood and Pat Cummins, who will also not feature at the start of the tournament. According to the report, Cricket Australia is managing its key bowlers carefully due to an upcoming packed international schedule. From August, Australia’s Test team is expected to play up to 21 matches in a year, including important tours of South Africa, India and England, followed by the ICC ODI World Cup 2027. The return of these players will depend on how well they recover in the coming weeks. “Cricket Australia is taking a cautious approach with their star multi-format bowlers given what lies ahead: from August, the Test side will play up to 21 matches in a 12-month period, including legacy-defining tours of South Africa, India and England, before defending their ODI World Cup crown in Southern Africa in late 2027. The trio’s availability will depend on progress in their return to play protocols over the next few weeks," the report stated. Also Read - March Madness | WATCH - VCU stuns UNC, thanks to 3P dagger in OT by Hill Cummins, who leads Australia in Tests, played only one match in the 2025-26 The Ashes due to a back injury. Hazlewood, on the other hand, missed the entire series because of hamstring and Achilles issues. Both players also missed the T20 World Cup 2026, held in India and Sri Lanka. In Cummins’ absence, Ishan Kishan will lead Hyderabad at the start of the season, which begins on Mar 28. Another Australian pacer, Nathan Ellis, is ruled out of the IPL 2026 due to a hamstring injury. He had recovered earlier to play in the World Cup but got injured again during a domestic final in Hobart. Also Read - FIFA reprimands Israeli Football for breaching anti-discrimination objectives Young Australian bowler Jack Edwards will also miss IPL 2026 due to a foot injury. He had performed well in the Big Bash League, taking 19 wickets in 13 matches. Starc’s absence is a big setback for Delhi Capitals, as he is their lead bowler and picked up 14 wickets in 11 matches last season. In his absence, South African pacer Lungi Ngidi is expected to lead the bowling attack, with support from T. Natarajan, Auqib Nabi Dar, Kyle Jamieson and Dushmantha Chameera.

This decision comes ahead of a demanding year, as Australia’s Test side prepares for a heavy workload of up to 21 matches over the next 12 months starting in August.

Delhi Capitals suffer early setback as Mitchell Starc set to miss initial stage of IPL 2026

From Mitchell Starc to Rashid Khan, here's a look at the top five bowlers fastest to 150 wickets in ODIs. This list also includes Saqlain Mushtaq, Mohammed Shami and Trent Boult

From Mitchell Starc to Rashid Khan, here's a look at the top five bowlers fastest to 150 wickets in ODIs. This list also includes Saqlain Mushtaq, Mohammed Shami and Trent Boult

Meet top 5 bowlers fastest to 150 ODI wickets

Australia retained the urn, beating England 4-1 at home. Barring the batting unit that clicked in the most games, one Aussie bowler impressed throughout, picking up 31 wickets, joining an elite club. Let’s check who all made it.

Australia retained the urn, beating England 4-1 at home. Barring the batting unit that clicked in the most games, one Aussie bowler impressed throughout, picking up 31 wickets, joining an elite club. Let’s check who all made it.

Meet 5 bowlers with most wickets in an Ashes series since 2000

Australia's Mitchell Starc finished the year 2025 with 49 Test wickets after turning 35 in January and he isn't even in top 3. The list includes West Indies' Courtney Walsh (66 wickets in 2000), England's Sydney Barnes (61 wickets in 1912), and Australia's Glenn McGrath (58 wickets in 2005).

Australia's Mitchell Starc finished the year 2025 with 49 Test wickets after turning 35 in January and he isn't even in top 3. The list includes West Indies' Courtney Walsh (66 wickets in 2000), England's Sydney Barnes (61 wickets in 1912), and Australia's Glenn McGrath (58 wickets in 2005).

Too old to bowl? Meet bowlers with most Test wickets in a year after turning 35

Discover the top 5 ICC Test all-rounders in 2026, rated for their exceptional batting, bowling, and match-winning abilities, shaping the balance of Test cricket and making a major impact in the longest format.


Discover the top 5 ICC Test all-rounders in 2026, rated for their exceptional batting, bowling, and match-winning abilities, shaping the balance of Test cricket and making a major impact in the longest format.

Meet top 5 all-rounders in latest ICC Test rankings 2026

Meet top 5 bowlers in latest ICC Test bowling rankings 2026

Tensions rose during the recently concluded third Ashes Test in Adelaide, where several decisions led to confusion and frustration across both camps, also influencing the outcome. Although Australia stood tall in the end, all because they played better cricket across five days, a couple of decisions involving Snicko technology drew attention. Starc, who bashed it sometime during this Test, asking for it to be sacked, raised his voice against the ICC’s decision of not using just one technology across all series, diluting all confusion.&nbsp;A Snicko error earlier saved Aussie gloveman Alex Carey, who edged one to the keeper on day one, only for England to have that review reinstated; it, however, further led to frustrations across both camps later in the game, twice involving the same batter, Jamie Smith, within the span of a few overs. While the English camp felt relieved over the first decision involving Smith, with the Aussies fuming over it, the visitors sought answers a couple of overs later when a Snicko error led to his dismissal, putting England on the backfoot.&nbsp;Also read | <a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/aus-vs-eng-brendon-mccullum-admits-errors-in-ashes-preparations-as-england-aim-to-salvage-pride-1766376902058">Brendon McCullum admits errors in Ashes preparations as ENG aim to salvage pride</a> &nbsp;"I'm sure it's frustrating for everyone, viewers, officials, broadcasters, no doubt," Starc said about the technology. "One thing I will say ... I'm only going to speak for myself here, the officials use it, right? So why doesn't the ICC pay for it? And why is it not just one [provider] across the board? Why don't we use the same technology in all the different series? That's going to perhaps create less confusion, less frustration? So that's where I'll leave that." Two different technologies &nbsp;The apex body – the ICC has approved two ‘sound-based edge detection technology’ suppliers – the RTS, used in Australia and UltraEdge, used across all competitions worldwide. While former Australian captain Ricky Ponting admitted that the UltraEdge technology is superior to the RTS, which he said cannot be trusted, current Test captain Pat Cummins shared altered views on it.&nbsp; &nbsp;"The one here seems a little bit different to sometimes what you get overseas," Cummins said. "There's always a few murmurs. You're hoping that it matches up if you're the bowling team. Sometimes you kind of just making sure that it's all okay if you're batting, even though you feel like you haven't hit it. It sometimes doesn't feel super consistent, but you just crack on whatever the umpire says,” he said, as quoted by ESPNcricinfo.&nbsp; &nbsp;Meanwhile, Australia has retained the Ashes following winning the third Test in Adelaide by 82 runs. They play England next in the Boxing Day Test at the iconic MCG starting December 26.

The Snicko technology came under the scanner for a few controversial calls during the concluded Ashes Test in Adelaide. 

Tensions rose during the recently concluded third Ashes Test in Adelaide, where several decisions led to confusion and frustration across both camps, also influencing the outcome. Although Australia stood tall in the end, all because they played better cricket across five days, a couple of decisions involving Snicko technology drew attention. Starc, who bashed it sometime during this Test, asking for it to be sacked, raised his voice against the ICC’s decision of not using just one technology across all series, diluting all confusion. A Snicko error earlier saved Aussie gloveman Alex Carey, who edged one to the keeper on day one, only for England to have that review reinstated; it, however, further led to frustrations across both camps later in the game, twice involving the same batter, Jamie Smith, within the span of a few overs. While the English camp felt relieved over the first decision involving Smith, with the Aussies fuming over it, the visitors sought answers a couple of overs later when a Snicko error led to his dismissal, putting England on the backfoot. Also read | Brendon McCullum admits errors in Ashes preparations as ENG aim to salvage pride "I'm sure it's frustrating for everyone, viewers, officials, broadcasters, no doubt," Starc said about the technology. "One thing I will say ... I'm only going to speak for myself here, the officials use it, right? So why doesn't the ICC pay for it? And why is it not just one [provider] across the board? Why don't we use the same technology in all the different series? That's going to perhaps create less confusion, less frustration? So that's where I'll leave that." Two different technologies The apex body – the ICC has approved two ‘sound-based edge detection technology’ suppliers – the RTS, used in Australia and UltraEdge, used across all competitions worldwide. While former Australian captain Ricky Ponting admitted that the UltraEdge technology is superior to the RTS, which he said cannot be trusted, current Test captain Pat Cummins shared altered views on it. "The one here seems a little bit different to sometimes what you get overseas," Cummins said. "There's always a few murmurs. You're hoping that it matches up if you're the bowling team. Sometimes you kind of just making sure that it's all okay if you're batting, even though you feel like you haven't hit it. It sometimes doesn't feel super consistent, but you just crack on whatever the umpire says,” he said, as quoted by ESPNcricinfo. Meanwhile, Australia has retained the Ashes following winning the third Test in Adelaide by 82 runs. They play England next in the Boxing Day Test at the iconic MCG starting December 26.

The Snicko technology came under the scanner for a few controversial calls during the concluded Ashes Test in Adelaide.&nbsp;

Ashes: Mitchell Starc urges ICC to pay for DRS amid rising complaints against Snicko

England captain Ben Stokes was seen gutted in the opening session of Day 3 of the third Ashes Test in Adelaide after he was dismissed by Aussie pacer Mitchell Starc. Playing at the Adelaide Oval, Stokes’s frustration was evident as England desperately tried to narrow down the first innings deposit. Ultimately, they fell short, trailing Australia by 85 runs at the end of the first innings. However, it was Stokes whose reaction made the headlines.

<blockquote class="twitter-tweet" data-media-max-width="560">OH MY WORD WHAT A SEED FROM MITCH STARC!<a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/Ashes?src=hash&amp;ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#Ashes</a> | <a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/PlayoftheDay?src=hash&amp;ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#PlayoftheDay</a> | <a href="https://twitter.com/nrmainsurance?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">@nrmainsurance</a> <a href="https://t.co/1z4idDsklT">pic.twitter.com/1z4idDsklT</a>&mdash; cricket.com.au (@cricketcomau) <a href="https://twitter.com/cricketcomau/status/2001816103069057091?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">December 19, 2025</a></blockquote> <script async src="https://platform.twitter.com/widgets.js" charset="utf-8"></script>

<h2>Stokes showcases anger</h2>Playing in the morning session of Day 3, on the first ball of the 85th over, Stokes was castled by Starc, after the English batter was seen jumping and leaving the field in frustration. At the time of his dismissal, Stokes was on 83 and missed out on a ton. He, along with Jofra Archer, put together 106 runs for the ninth wicket, meaning England significantly reduced Australia’s first innings advantage.&nbsp;ALSO READ | <a href="https://www.wionews.com/photos/from-steve-smith-to-joe-root-5-active-batters-with-most-runs-in-ashes-ben-stokes-jonny-bairstow-usman-khawaja-1762275784636">From Steve Smith to Joe Root, 5 active batters with most runs in Ashes</a>&nbsp;Four overs after Stokes’s dismissal, Archer was also dismissed as England were bowled out for 286. Apart from Stokes and Archer, Harry Brook played a key role with a 45-run knock on Day 2.&nbsp;For Australia, both Scott Boland and captain Pat Cummins bagged three wickets each while Nathan Lyon bagged a brace on Day 2, which also saw him surpass Glenn McGrath for most Test wickets.&nbsp;ALSO READ | <a href="https://www.wionews.com/photos/from-leonard-hutton-to-don-bradman-5-batters-with-highest-individual-score-in-ashes-bob-simpson-bob-cowper-ashes-2025-26-1762276944046">From Leonard Hutton to Don Bradman, 5 batters with highest individual score in Ashes</a><h2>What happened until lunch?</h2>Travis Head and Marnus Labuschagne steered a nervy Australia to 17-1 at lunch and a 102-run lead Friday after Ben Stokes's gritty 83 gave England a slither of hope on day three of the third Ashes Test.&nbsp;Head was not out five and Labuschagne on four in Adelaide as the hosts aim to pile on a big total and put the five-match series out of England's reach.&nbsp;But they suffered a setback in a tense 20 minutes before lunch after England were all out for 286 in response to Australia's first innings of 371.&nbsp;Bryson Carse trapped Jake Weatherald lbw for one and he walked without reviewing after the umpire lifted his finger, although replays showed the ball was pitching outside leg stump.

Playing in the morning session of Day 3, on the first ball of the 85th over, Stokes was castled by Starc, after the English batter was seen jumping and leaving the field in frustration.

England captain Ben Stokes was seen gutted in the opening session of Day 3 of the third Ashes Test in Adelaide after he was dismissed by Aussie pacer Mitchell Starc. Playing at the Adelaide Oval, Stokes’s frustration was evident as England desperately tried to narrow down the first innings deposit. Ultimately, they fell short, trailing Australia by 85 runs at the end of the first innings. However, it was Stokes whose reaction made the headlines.

Playing in the morning session of Day 3, on the first ball of the 85th over, Stokes was castled by Starc, after the English batter was seen jumping and leaving the field in frustration.

Watch: Angry Ben Stokes jumps in frustration as Mitchell Starc castles English batter

From Shane Warne to Nathan Lyon, here's a look at the top five Australian bowlers with most wickets in Tests. This list also includes Glenn McGrath, Mitchell Starc and Dennis Lillee

From Shane Warne to Nathan Lyon, here's a look at the top five Australian bowlers with most wickets in Tests. This list also includes Glenn McGrath, Mitchell Starc and Dennis Lillee

Meet top 5 Australian bowlers with most Test wickets, Starc is fourth, check where Nathan Lyon stands

Snicko, the edge-detection technology, has come under the scanner for two howlers during the ongoing Adelaide Test, with Ashes heroes, including former England captain Nasser Hussain and Aussie speedster Mitchell Starc, bashing it left, right and centre. After England had their review reinstated by the match referee Jeff Crowe following a Snicko error that gave Alex Carey a life on day one, Cricket Australia chief executive sought clarification over its previous and latest malfunctions on day two involving England keeper Jamie Smith.

<blockquote class="twitter-tweet">It&#39;s been confirmed England have regained the review they lost in this incident on the opening day in Adelaide. Live <a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/Ashes?src=hash&amp;ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#Ashes</a> blog: <a href="https://t.co/hpOH2iNVYU">https://t.co/hpOH2iNVYU</a> <a href="https://t.co/kZHSHxw3Yt">pic.twitter.com/kZHSHxw3Yt</a>&mdash; cricket.com.au (@cricketcomau) <a href="https://twitter.com/cricketcomau/status/2001434334205743311?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">December 17, 2025</a></blockquote> <script async src="https://platform.twitter.com/widgets.js" charset="utf-8"></script>

Smith was the concerned batter on both occasions on Thursday when snicko errors left him and the Australian camp fuming. The first instance was when the replays saved Smith, who was hit on his glove, with the ball falling into Usman Khawaja’s hands in the second slip, only for the snicko to rule it out, leaving everyone, including Starc, boiling over this decision. He was on record calling out for the technology to be sacked, labelling it as the worst ever.&nbsp;WATCH - Snicko's first error on day two in Adelaide -

<blockquote class="twitter-tweet">Jamie Smith was given not out after this decision, but what&#39;s your take on this call?<a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/Ashes?src=hash&amp;ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#Ashes</a> | <a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/DRSChallenge?src=hash&amp;ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#DRSChallenge</a> | <a href="https://twitter.com/Westpac?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">@Westpac</a> <a href="https://t.co/4Yf3o7FgBj">pic.twitter.com/4Yf3o7FgBj</a>&mdash; cricket.com.au (@cricketcomau) <a href="https://twitter.com/cricketcomau/status/2001523091101425735?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">December 18, 2025</a></blockquote> <script async src="https://platform.twitter.com/widgets.js" charset="utf-8"></script>

Also read | <a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/cricket-ashes-2025-26-snicko-errors-take-spotlight-as-england-fight-for-survival-in-adelaide-test-1766042354233">Ashes 2025-26: Snicko errors take spotlight as England fight for survival in Adelaide Test</a> &nbsp;"Snicko needs to be sacked. That's the worst technology there is," Starc said, standing close to the stump microphone, after the decision was confirmed. "They make a mistake the other day, and they make another mistake today. &nbsp;Later, after two overs, Smith was at the receiving end for getting adjudged out (caught behind) off Cummins, despite not edging it, as the snicko showed otherwise, leading to Nasser Hussain commenting on the technology’s reliability in such a high-octane series.&nbsp; &nbsp;Unlike on the previous occasion when the snicko showed a spike as soon as it surpassed both bat and gloves, it again showed one (the second time), but after it had surpassed the bat, leading to confusion and frustration for everyone. The on-field umpires, however, did not make a decision the second time, referring it to the third umpire Gaffaney, who called out the shot. &nbsp;“England aren’t 2-0 down and had another bad day because of Snicko. England are not losing the Ashes because of the Snicko,” Hussain told Sky Sports before continuing.&nbsp; &nbsp;“But I will say everyone out here has lost faith in Snicko. You could hear on the stump mic, some of the Australian players saying ‘it’s a joke’ or that ‘it’s a terrible system’. The crowd in the stands or the people watching at home have completely lost faith in the system. Then you get into dangerous territory. You have the third umpire guessing. They’re trying to work out when the noise came, when the ball did went past the bat,” he said of the technology. &nbsp;Meanwhile, as things stand, England is trailing by 158 runs with two wickets remaining in the first innings.

While the snicko saved Jamie Smith earlier, it wrongly adjudged him out the second time on day two of the Adelaide Test.

Snicko, the edge-detection technology, has come under the scanner for two howlers during the ongoing Adelaide Test, with Ashes heroes, including former England captain Nasser Hussain and Aussie speedster Mitchell Starc, bashing it left, right and centre. After England had their review reinstated by the match referee Jeff Crowe following a Snicko error that gave Alex Carey a life on day one, Cricket Australia chief executive sought clarification over its previous and latest malfunctions on day two involving England keeper Jamie Smith.

While the snicko saved Jamie Smith earlier, it wrongly adjudged him out the second time on day two of the Adelaide Test.

‘Worst technology’ - Ashes legends bash Snicko after horror calls on day 2 in Adelaide Test

From Nathan Lyon to Mitchell Starc here is a look at five active bowlers with most Test wickets. The prestigious list also features the likes of Ravindra Jadeja, Kagiso Rabada and Pat Cummins as Lyon surpassed Glenn McGrath in the Adelaide Test of the Ashes.

From Nathan Lyon to Mitchell Starc here is a look at five active bowlers with most Test wickets. The prestigious list also features the likes of Ravindra Jadeja, Kagiso Rabada and Pat Cummins as Lyon surpassed Glenn McGrath in the Adelaide Test of the Ashes.

From Nathan Lyon to Mitchell Starc, 5 active bowlers with most Test wickets

From Rishabh Pant to Cameron Green, here's a look at the top six most expensive IPL players of all time. This list also includes Mitchell Starc, Venkatesh Iyer, Shreyas Iyer and Pat Cummins

From Rishabh Pant to Cameron Green, here's a look at the top six most expensive IPL players of all time. This list also includes Mitchell Starc, Venkatesh Iyer, Shreyas Iyer and Pat Cummins

Yearender 2025: Top 6 most expensive IPL players of all time ft Cameron Green, Rishabh Pant

From Mitchell Starc to Blessing Muzarabani, here's a look at the top five bowlers with most Test wickets in 2025. This list also includes Mohammed Siraj, Taijul Islam and Jasprit Bumrah

From Mitchell Starc to Blessing Muzarabani, here's a look at the top five bowlers with most Test wickets in 2025. This list also includes Mohammed Siraj, Taijul Islam and Jasprit Bumrah

Meet top 5 bowlers with most Test wickets in 2025, check who tops the list

mitchell-starc

Mitchell Starc, News on Mitchell Starc, stories on Mitchell Starc, articles on Mitchell Starc, Mitchell Starc stories at Wion, Mitchell Starc news, Mitchell Starc latest news

mitchell starc

ICC Rankings: Mitchell Starc regains No. 1 Test bowler spot; Shreyas Iyer moves up to 7th in T20Is

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Australia firmly in command of Newlands Test against South Africa

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Top 5 bowlers in latest ICC Test rankings 2026 – check who’s on top

Top 5 bowlers in latest ICC Test rankings 2026 – check who’s on top

Mitchell Starc joins DC camp ahead of PBKS clash, will he make the XI today?

IPL: Mitchell Starc Gets Green Light from Cricket Australia for IPL; Big Boost for Delhi Capitals

IPL 2026 | Aussie speedster Starc cleared by Cricket Australia to join DC

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5 key players missing early IPL 2026 matches

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Meet top 5 bowlers fastest to 150 ODI wickets

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Meet top 5 all-rounders in latest ICC Test rankings 2026