In the annals of cricket, few achievements resonate as deeply as those that involve the sheer art and science of fast bowling.

On January 30, a Thursday that will be remembered for years to come in Australian cricket lore, Mitchell Starc, the towering left-arm pacer, stepped into an exclusive club by surpassing the legendary Dale Steyn in the list of all-time international wicket-takers.

Mitchell Starc Surpasses Dale Steyn, Joins likes of Glenn McGrath, Brett Lee and Shane Warne

With this feat, Starc not only moved past one of the game’s most feared bowlers but also joined the ranks of Australian icons like Brett Lee, Glenn McGrath, and Shane Warne on the list of those who have taken 700 or more wickets across all formats of international cricket.

The moment of transcendence came in the first Test match against Sri Lanka when Starc dismissed Dimuth Karunaratne, marking his entry into the ‘700 Club’.

This milestone wasn’t just about numbers; it was a testament to Starc’s dedication, skill, and the relentless pursuit of excellence that has defined his career.

In doing so, he became only the fourth Australian bowler to reach this landmark, a club that speaks volumes about the bowler’s longevity, versatility, and impact across different conditions and formats.

Starc’s journey to this point has been one of resilience.

His career has been punctuated by moments of brilliance, but also by battles with injury and the pressure of living up to the expectations of being Australia’s spearhead in the bowling attack.

The Border-Gavaskar Trophy, which concluded just before this historic achievement, showcased Starc’s pivotal role in Australia’s success.

He claimed 18 wickets from 5 Test matches, significantly contributing to Pat Cummins’ team clinching a 3-1 victory against India, a formidable opponent in their own backyard.

This achievement isn’t isolated when viewed through the lens of cricket history.

Only a select group of fast bowlers have managed to join this elite list, with non-Australian pacers like England’s James Anderson and Stuart Broad, Pakistan’s Wasim Akram and Waqar Younis, South Africa’s Shaun Pollock, New Zealand’s Tim Southee, Sri Lanka’s Chaminda Vaas, and the West Indies’ Courtney Walsh also making their marks.

To be mentioned alongside these names is not just an honor but a reflection of Starc’s consistency and prowess.

The significance of this milestone extends beyond personal accolades.

It speaks to Starc’s ability to perform across all formats – Tests, ODIs, and T20Is – each with its unique challenges and demands.

His capacity to swing the ball, his pace, and his tactical acumen have made him a nightmare for batsmen around the globe.

His journey from a young, lanky bowler to one of the world’s best is a narrative of growth, adaptation, and unwavering commitment.

Looking ahead, Starc’s legacy is still in the making.

His decision to play in the IPL 2025 for Delhi Capitals, after having played for Kolkata Knight Riders in IPL 2024, underscores his intent to continue challenging himself in one of cricket’s most competitive leagues.

The IPL provides a different kind of test, where the ability to execute under pressure in front of packed stadiums is paramount. Starc’s participation in these leagues not only enhances his skills but also his global appeal as a cricketer.

For Starc, this isn’t the end but perhaps the beginning of another chapter.

His journey in cricket has been about conquering one peak after another, whether it’s taking wickets in crucial matches, leading the bowling attack, or now, etching his name in the annals of cricket history with this latest feat.

The implications of surpassing Steyn are manifold; it’s not just about numbers but about the narrative it adds to his career – one of perseverance, skill, and an undying passion for the game.

In cricket, where every match can be a battle of attrition and skill, Mitchell Starc’s achievement is a beacon of what’s possible with hard work and talent.

It’s a story of a fast bowler who has not only survived but thrived in an era where the balance often tilts towards batting.

His journey from being a promising youngster to a cricketing giant has been inspirational, and as he continues to play, there’s no telling what peaks he might yet conquer.

The legacy of Mitchell Starc in this context isn’t just about the wickets he’s taken but how he’s done it – with flair, with intelligence, and with a heart that beats for the game.

As cricket fans, we’ve witnessed history, and with Starc, the story is far from over.

Each delivery he bowls now adds to an already storied career, and each match presents another opportunity for him to show why he belongs among the legends of the game.