Australian pace spearhead Mitchell Starc delivered a stunning early blow to England on the opening day of the second Ashes Test at Brisbane's Gabba on Thursday, December 4, 2025. The left-arm speedster struck in the very first over, inching closer to a remarkable record held by England's legendary bowler James Anderson.
Starc's First-Over Mastery Continues
In a display of supreme skill and aggression, Mitchell Starc sent back England opener Ben Duckett for a golden duck. Duckett, tempted by a fuller delivery, pushed tentatively only to edge the ball to Marnus Labuschagne in the slips. This dismissal marked a significant milestone for the 35-year-old Australian. It was his 26th wicket in the first over of a Test innings throughout his illustrious career.
This feat underscores Starc's enduring potency with the new ball. Despite his age, he remains a formidable force, showcasing the same hunger and fitness that defined his early years. His performance in the first Test at Perth, where he took wickets in the first over of both innings, set the stage for this Gabba repeat.
Chasing a Legend: The Anderson Record
With this latest breakthrough, Mitchell Starc has firmly set his sights on a unique record. The only bowler ahead of him on the list of most first-over wickets in Test cricket is England's James Anderson, who has 29 such scalps to his name. Starc's relentless start at the Gabba brings him within striking distance of Anderson's benchmark, adding a compelling subplot to the high-stakes Ashes contest.
Perfect Start for Australia at the Gabba
The early strike was just the beginning of England's troubles. Starc's new-ball spell yielded further success when he clean bowled Ollie Pope, who chopped the ball onto his stumps after facing just three deliveries. This double strike provided Australia with a perfect start, rocking the English top order and seizing immediate momentum in the crucial second Test.
The action at the Gabba reaffirms Starc's status as one of the most dangerous opening bowlers in the world. His ability to provide early breakthroughs continues to be a cornerstone of Australia's bowling strategy, putting immense pressure on opposition batting line-ups from the very first ball.
