Best Bowling Figures in Test | Bowling Record | Best Test Bowler

Cricket is a game of uncertainties, where a single spell can change the course of a match. Test cricket has seen some fantastic bowling performances throughout its history, with bowlers showing impeccable skill, accuracy, and consistency. In this article, we’ll discuss the best bowling figures in Test cricket, the factors that contribute to such achievements, and some memorable bowling performances that have left fans in awe. Although you can also learn here about the highest test score and best player in the world with all information.

Top 5 Best Bowling Figures in Test

Bowling figures in test cricket are always a matter of pride for bowlers. It represents the number of wickets taken by them and the number of runs conceded while doing so. It is not easy to achieve great bowling figures in test matches, as it requires skill, patience, and consistency. Here are some of the best bowling figures recorded in test cricket:

First on the list is Jim Laker’s 10 for 53 against Australia at Old Trafford in 1956. This was a match-winning performance by Laker, who became the first player to take all ten wickets in an inning of a Test match. He bowled tirelessly throughout the match and his efforts led England to a comprehensive victory.

Jim Laker – 19/90

Arguably the most exceptional bowling performance in Test cricket, Jim Laker’s 19/90 for England against Australia in 1956 is a record that may never be broken. Laker’s off-spin mesmerized the Australian batsmen, and he became the first bowler to take all ten wickets in an inning.

Anil Kumble – 14/149

Legendary Indian leg-spinner Anil Kumble achieved the second-best bowling figures in Test cricket in 1999 against Pakistan. With his unplayable deliveries, Kumble picked up all ten wickets in the second innings, becoming only the second bowler in history to achieve this feat. Anil Kumble is also one of India best captain and he did a very well job as a bowler and captain for team India.

Muttiah Muralitharan – 16/220

The highest wicket-taker in Test cricket, Muttiah Muralitharan, registered his career-best figures of 16/220 against England in 1998. The Sri Lankan spin wizard’s exceptional performance helped his team secure a memorable victory.

Richard Hadlee – 15/123

New Zealand’s greatest bowler, Sir Richard Hadlee, produced a match-winning spell of 15/123 against Australia in 1985. Hadlee’s incredible swing and seam movement proved too much for the Australian batsmen to handle.

Michael Holding – 14/149

West Indian fast bowler Michael Holding’s 14/149 against England in 1976 is considered one of the most devastating fast-bowling performances in Test cricket. Holding’s sheer pace and accuracy dismantled the English batting lineup.

Factors That Contribute to Best Bowling Figures In Test

• Pitch Conditions

A bowler-friendly pitch can play a significant role in achieving outstanding bowling figures. Pitches that offer assistance to spinners or seam bowlers can be a nightmare for batsmen and create opportunities for record-breaking performances.

• Skill Level

The bowler’s skill level is crucial in achieving extraordinary bowling figures. Mastery of line, length, and variations can make a bowler lethal on any pitch, making it difficult for batsmen to score runs or even survive at the crease.

• Opposition Weakness

Sometimes, the opposition’s lack of experience or poor form can contribute to a bowler’s success. Exploiting the weaknesses of the opposition’s batting lineup can lead to impressive bowling figures.

Memorable Bowling Performances

Apart from the top five best bowling figures in Test cricket, there have been other unforgettable performances that deserve a special mention.

• Stuart Broad – 8/15

England’s Stuart Broad produced a sensational spell of 8/15 against Australia in the 2015 Ashes series. His lethal swing bowling destroyed the Australian batting order, and they were bundled out for a meager 60 runs.

• Harbhajan Singh – 8/84

Indian off-spinner Harbhajan Singh’s 8/84 against Australia in 2001 is another memorable performance. His magical spell played a crucial role in India’s famous victory in the Kolkata Test, which marked a turning point and one of the best bowling figures in Test in Indian cricket history.

Conclusion

Cricket has witnessed many extraordinary bowling performances in Test matches over the years. The best bowling figures in Test cricket are a testament to the skill, determination, and hard work of these exceptional bowlers. These iconic spells will forever remain etched in the minds of cricket fans and serve as an inspiration for future generations of cricketers.

Who holds the record for the best bowling figures in Test cricket?

Jim Laker holds the record for the best bowling figures in Test cricket, with 19/90 against Australia in 1956.

Who is the highest wicket-taker in Test cricket?

Muttiah Muralitharan is the highest wicket-taker in Test cricket, with 800 wickets.