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Mitchell Starc Australia
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Australia has a rich history in One Day International cricket, with bowlers playing a huge role in their success over the years. From winning the first-ever ODI match in 1971 to securing a record six World Cup titles, Australia’s bowlers have always been crucial to their success.

Among them, Mitchell Starc continues to cement his legacy. In the ongoing 3rd ODI between Australia and England on September 24, 2024, Starc took two early wickets, helping his team defend a target of 305.

With the first two wickets, Starc moved up to fourth place on Australia’s list of all-time highest wicket-takers in ODIs.

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As Aussies look to wrap up the match and complete a white-wash, Starc’s performance pushes him above Mitchell Johnson in the rankings. Let’s take a detailed look at Australia's top five wicket-takers in ODI cricket.

Who are Australia's highest wicket-takers in ODI cricket?

5. Mitchell Johnson – 239 wickets

Mitchell Johnson is one of the greatest fast bowlers to represent Australia. He took 239 wickets in 153 ODIs, debuting in December 2005 against New Zealand.

Johnson was known for his aggressive style and pace, which helped him pick up nine four-wicket hauls and three five-wicket hauls. His last ODI match was also against New Zealand in March 2015.

4. Mitchell Starc – 241 wickets*

Mitchell Starc has moved up to fourth place after taking two wickets in the ongoing match against England, reaching 241 wickets in his ODI career.

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Starc made his ODI debut against India in 2010 and has been a regular part of Australia’s bowling attack since then. He played a major role in Australia's 2015 World Cup win, taking 22 wickets in the tournament.

3. Shane Warne – 291 wickets

Shane Warne, one of the greatest leg-spinners in cricket history, was the first Australian spinner to take over 250 wickets in ODIs. In his 194-match career, Warne took 291 wickets, with 12 four-wicket hauls and one five-wicket haul. Warne’s legacy in Australian cricket remains strong, even after his passing in 2022.

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2. Glenn McGrath – 380 wickets

Glenn McGrath, famously known as “Pigeon,” is one of Australia’s most consistent and accurate bowlers. McGrath made his ODI debut in 1993 and played until the 2007 World Cup final.

With 380 wickets from 250 matches, McGrath was instrumental in many of Australia’s victories. He holds the record for the most wickets (71) in World Cup history.

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1. Brett Lee – 380 wickets

Brett Lee, one of the fastest bowlers of all time, shares the top spot with McGrath, taking 380 wickets in 221 ODIs. Known for his sheer pace and aggression, Lee’s ability to pick wickets regularly made him one of the most feared bowlers.

He took 14 four-wicket hauls and nine five-wicket hauls during his career, which spanned from 2000 to 2012.

BowlerMatchesWickets
Glenn McGrath250380
Brett Lee221380
Shane Warne194291
Mitchell Starc123241*
Mitchell Johnson153239

Mitchell Starc’s rise to fourth place among Australia’s highest ODI wicket-takers shows his importance to the team. His recent performance against England in the ongoing ODI series proves that he still has a lot to offer.

As Starc continues to climb the rankings, he joins a legendary group of Australian bowlers who have made their mark in ODI cricket.

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Author(s)
Divy Dubey Photo

Divy Dubey is a content producer for The Sporting News' India edition.