It is cool and very humbling: Mitchell Starc on nearing Kapil Dev's Test wicket record

Mitchell Starc stands on the verge of a significant milestone in Test cricket history. The 36-year-old Australian fast bowler has taken 433 Test wickets across 105 matches, placing him within touching distance of Kapil Dev's tally of 434 wickets. Starc requires just two more scalps to surpass the Indian cricket legend and move higher on the all-time Test wicket-takers list. Starc will have the opportunity to add to his tally during a two-match series against Bangladesh, beginning on August 13 in Darwin. This series is a part of the World Test Championship (WTC) cycle.

In the current WTC cycle, Starc has claimed 46 wickets across eight games, demonstrating his continued effectiveness at the highest level. During the recent Ashes series, he took 31 wickets, showcasing his ability to perform in marquee contests. The Australian team currently leads the WTC standings, positioning them well for the upcoming Bangladesh assignment.

"It is cool and very humbling to be spoken about it with those guys. But that stuff doesn't mean a whole lot while you're still playing. You don't get too far ahead," Starc told the Australian Associated Press when asked about the milestone.

The bowler emphasised that while the achievement carries significance, his focus remains on the present rather than the milestone itself. Beyond Kapil Dev's mark lies Dale Steyn's record of 439 Test wickets. Starc would need seven more wickets to overtake the South African legend. Should he surpass both Kapil Dev and Steyn, Starc would secure a place among the top 10 wicket-takers in men's Test history.

The Baulkham Hills-born said that he has worked very hard on his fitness so that his body is prepared to take on the rigours of international cricket. Despite being 36 years old, Starc is one of the fittest cricketers going around and contributes in the field by diving around, stopping runs, and taking crucial catches.

"When you're 36 and you've been around for 16 years, you'd like to think you've improved or got better at something," Starc said.

"You're also around that long because you're able to develop and learn and improve. And you add in a few things like the wobble seam, consistency and other things. I have a pretty clear mindset on it all," he added.

The Marrara Cricket Ground in Darwin will host the first Test from August 13 to August 17. Meanwhile, the Great Barrier Reef Arena in Mackay is the venue for the second Test, starting from August 22 to August 26.