Top 5 Bowlers With Most Wickets in Test Cricket
Top 5 Bowlers With Most Wickets in Test Cricket: When it comes to cricket, the Test format has always been at the forefront of the game. From the earliest days to the present, it has never failed to keep fans entertained. One of the main jobs in test cricket is the bowling part where bowling has to run in and out from morning to evening. So there have been many legends who have marked their names in the history books as the highest takers in the test format.
There is no denying that being a bowler in a test format is completely different when compared to the other two formats (ODI’s & T20’s). From spinners to pacers the bowlers have concurred with the test format over the years.
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From Players like Muralitharan to Shane Warne all have had their long-lasting impact on the test format and even though some of the players have retired long back, no one has been able to come close to what these top classes have achieved over their test career. So let’s look at the current top wicket-takers in the test format.
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Top Five Wicket Takers in Test Cricket:
#1 Muttiah Muralitharan – 230 innings (800 Wickets)
No discussion about bowling legends is complete without mentioning Muttiah Muralitharan. Hailing from Sri Lanka, Muralitharan’s career spanned from 1992 to 2010, during which he took an astonishing 800 wickets in 230 innings, making him the highest wicket-taker in test cricket till date. His unorthodox off-spin and the infamous “doosra” left batsmen bamboozled. Because of his consistency and versatility, Muralitharan is considered a real icon in the game.
#2 Shane Warne – 273 innings (708 Wickets)
Shane Warne, the Australian legend, revolutionized leg-spin bowling during his time when he picked up 708 wickets in 273 innings, Warne’s career, which stretched from 1992 to 2007, was filled with mesmerizing deliveries and match-winning spells. His ability to turn the ball sharply and deceive batsmen with his flippers and googlies made him a nightmare for opponents.
#3 James Anderson – 348 innings (700 Wickets)
James Anderson, England’s leading wicket-taker, is still active and adding to his tally. With 700 wickets in 348 innings, Anderson has mastered the art of swing bowling. His control, accuracy, and ability to move the ball both ways have been pivotal in many of England’s Test victories. Anderson’s longevity and fitness are commendable, allowing him to perform consistently even in the latter stages of his career.
#4 Anil Kumble – 236 innings (619 Wickets)
Anil Kumble, India’s highest wicket-taker, captured 619 wickets in 236 innings. Known for his unique style of leg-spin, Kumble relied more on accuracy and bounce rather than sharp turn. His relentless determination and ability to bowl long spells made him an asset for India from 1990 to 2008. Kumble’s 10-wicket haul in a single innings against Pakistan in 1999 remains one of the greatest bowling performances in Test cricket.
#5 Stuart Broad – 309 innings (604 Wickets)
Stuart Broad, another Englishman on the list, has been a consistent performer for his team. With 604 wickets in 309 innings, Broad’s ability to exploit seam conditions and generate bounce has troubled many top-order batsmen. Over the years, England’s bowling success has been greatly attributed to his partnership with James Anderson.
Conclusion: Will New Generation Players Ever Break These Records
As said before being a test format bowler is completely difficult and these five players have marked their names in the history books with their incredible performances. They have not only entertained cricket fans worldwide but also set benchmarks for future generations. Their dedication, skill, and relentless pursuit of excellence have made Test cricket the ultimate test of a bowler’s prowess. As the game evolves, these legends will always be remembered for their invaluable contributions to the sport.