Mitchell Starc Creates Ashes History With ‘Unique Century’ In Perth Test Against England

The Ashes 2025–26 series kicked off with explosive energy at the Optus Stadium in Perth, and at the heart of the action was Australia’s fiery left-arm fast bowler Mitchell Starc. In a sensational opening spell, Starc dismantled England’s top order, capturing three wickets inside the first 10 overs. Those wickets did more than rattle the visitors — they cemented Starc’s name in Ashes history, earning him a ‘unique century’ that no other left-arm seamer has achieved before.

With Australia missing two of their pace giants, Pat Cummins and Josh Hazlewood, the responsibility of leading the attack fell squarely on Starc’s shoulders. And he delivered in trademark fashion — fast, furious, and unforgettable.

Starc Strikes in the First Over — Crawley Falls Early

The Perth crowd barely had time to settle into their seats before Starc produced a classic new-ball dismissal. In the very first over of the Ashes series, he angled a beautiful delivery across opener Zak Crawley, who edged it straight into the safe hands of Usman Khawaja at first slip.

This early breakthrough wasn’t just a wicket — it was a statement. Starc reminded everyone why he is one of the world’s most dangerous bowlers with a new ball in hand. The energy inside the stadium surged, and England were instantly on the back foot.

Ben Duckett’s Bazball Bravado Meets Starc’s Precision

Ben Duckett, known for his rapid scoring in England’s aggressive ‘Bazball’ approach, seemed promising as he raced to 21 off just 20 balls. But Starc’s discipline and swing proved too much.

In the 7th over, he dismissed Duckett with a delivery that cramped the left-hander’s shot-making instincts. The ball kissed the bat's edge, and Australia tightened their grip on the game.

This dismissal showcased Starc’s ability not just to bowl fast, but to outsmart batters who attempt to dominate him.

Joe Root Falls for a Duck — A Landmark Moment

The biggest moment of the session — and arguably the day — arrived when Joe Root, England’s batting mainstay and modern legend, faced Starc. Root had barely taken guard when Starc sent him back for a 7-ball duck, triggering huge celebrations across the stadium.

This was no ordinary wicket.

It was Starc’s 100th Test wicket in Ashes cricket,

making him:

• The 21st bowler in history to reach 100 Ashes wickets

• The first left-arm fast bowler ever to achieve this milestone

• The bowler with the best strike rate (44.8) among all 21 bowlers who have 100+ Ashes wickets

This ‘unique century’ etched Starc’s name deeper into cricketing lore and affirmed his status as one of the most lethal Ashes performers of all time.

Starc’s Dominance in Ashes First Overs

One of the most remarkable stats from Starc’s career is his uncanny ability to strike in the first over of Test matches.

• He now has 24 first-over wickets in Test cricket

• 15 of those have come since 2015

• His consistency in early breakthroughs is unmatched among active fast bowlers

Joe Root’s wicket added another unforgettable chapter to this record, reminding fans why opening overs become must-watch events whenever Starc has the ball.

A Leader in the Absence of Cummins and Hazlewood

With Australia’s pace attack missing Pat Cummins and Josh Hazlewood for the opening Test, Starc was handed the responsibility of leading the charge. Ahead of the match, he had publicly expressed frustration about the Ashes opener being scheduled in Perth instead of the traditional Gabba.

Yet when the game began, Starc put those sentiments aside and let his performance speak for itself.

His early spell not only disrupted England’s top order but also ignited energy and belief within the Australian camp. The Optus Stadium roared with every wicket, as teammates rallied behind their spearhead.

Why This Spell Will Be Remembered

Mitchell Starc has delivered many iconic spells throughout his career, but this one stands out for several reasons:

1. A Historic Milestone Achieved

Becoming the first left-arm pacer to reach 100 Ashes wickets places Starc in a rare and elite club.

2. A Classic Ashes Moment

Striking in the first over of the series opener adds cinematic flair to the achievement.

3. A Statement of Leadership

Starc assumed the role of senior bowler and delivered under pressure when his team needed him most.

4. A Blow to England’s Bazball Blueprint

England’s new aggressive approach was rattled early, proving that quality pace bowling still holds the power to disrupt any strategy.

Key Highlights of Starc’s Spell

• 3 wickets in the first 10 overs

• Dismissals: Zak Crawley, Ben Duckett, Joe Root

• Reached 100 Ashes wickets — first left-arm seamer to do so

• Best strike rate among all bowlers with 100+ Ashes wickets

• Continued dominance in first overs of Test innings

• Led the Australian attack without Cummins and Hazlewood

FAQs

1. What is Mitchell Starc’s new Ashes record?

He became the first left-arm fast bowler to reach 100 Ashes Test wickets, entering an elite list of only 21 bowlers.

2. Which wickets helped Starc reach this milestone in the Perth Test?

He dismissed Zak Crawley, Ben Duckett, and Joe Root.

3. Why is Joe Root’s dismissal special?

It was Starc’s 100th Ashes wicket, marking a major historic milestone.

4. How early did Starc strike in the match?

He took a wicket in the very first over of the Ashes series.

5. How many first-over wickets does Starc have in Test cricket?

He has 24 first-over wickets, including 15 since 2015 — one of the best records in world cricket.

Final Thoughts

Mitchell Starc’s blistering opening spell in the Perth Ashes Test was more than just a dominant performance — it was a historic moment that will be talked about for years. With lethal pace, precision swing, and unwavering intensity, Starc reminded the cricket world why he remains one of the most fearsome fast bowlers of his generation.

His ‘unique century’ has not only strengthened Australia’s position in the series but also enriched the Ashes legacy with yet another unforgettable chapter.