Top 5 Pacers with Most Wickets in Test Cricket
Test the pinnacle format in the game of cricket, has been the most elusive part of the game of cricket. With the new WTC cycle underway for the 2025-27 cycle, we deep dive into the top 5 pacers with most wickets in test cricket.
#1 James Anderson (England)
James Anderson, England’s pace legend, currently holds the record for the most Test wickets by a pacer, with 704 dismissals in 188 test matches from the year 2003 to 2024. His career, spanning over two decades, showcases remarkable longevity, with 32 five-wicket hauls and three 10-wicket match hauls. Anderson’s best figures of 7/42 highlight his ability to dismantle batting line-ups using late swing. His 26.45 average and 2.79 economy across 40,037 deliveries reflect consistency, with a strike rate of 56.87. Anderson was a master of English conditions and adaptability overseas cementing his legacy as a test icon.
#2 Stuart Broad (England)
Stuart Broad, Anderson’s long-time teammate, claimed 604 wickets in 167 Tests from 2007 to 2023. Known for dominant spells, his career-best 8/15 against Australia in 2015 is legendary. Broad’s 33,698 deliveries got him 20 five-wicket hauls and three 10-wicket hauls, with an average of 27.68 and economy of 2.97. His strike rate of 55.79 shows his knack for breaking partnerships. Broad’s fiery flexibility and swing bowling made him a key force in England’s Ashes victories.
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#3 Glenn McGrath (Australia)
Glenn McGrath, Australia’s pace machine, took 563 wickets in 124 Tests from 1993 to 2007 in his career. His metronomic accuracy delivered 29 five-wicket hauls and three 10-wicket hauls, with a best of 8/24. McGrath’s 21.64 average and 2.49 economy across 29,248 deliveries highlight his dominance, with a strike rate of 51.95. His relentless line and length made him a cornerstone of Australia’s golden era.
#4 Courtney Walsh (West Indies)
Courtney Walsh hailing from West Indies was the first one to reach the 500 Test wickets milestone, securing 519 in 132 matches from 1984 to 2001. His 7/37 and 22 five-wicket hauls show his endurance across 30,019 deliveries. Walsh’s 24.44 average and 2.53 economy reflect his consistency.
#5 Dale Steyn (South Africa)
Dale Steyn, South Africa’s pace legend, took 439 wickets in 93 Tests from 2004 to 2019. His 7/51 and 26 five-wicket hauls, with a strike rate of 42.38, showcase his lethality across 18,608 deliveries.
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