Test Cricket is considered the ultimate format of the game, where players showcase their skill, patience and endurance. Among many records in this format, one stands out-the title of the highest wicket-taker. This record symbolizes exceptional talent, hard work and consistency, making it one of the most prestigious achievements in cricket history.
Muttiah Muralitharan, a legendary off-spinner from Sir Lanka, holds the record for the most wickets in test cricket. With an incredible 800 wickets in 230 innings, he is considered one of the greatest bowlers of all time. His best bowling figures in a single innings are 9 wickets for 51 runs, which is the second-best in test cricket history. Muralitharan played for over two decades and maintained a remarkable bowling average of 22.72 and an economy of 2.47. He is also the highest wicket-taker in One-Day International (ODI).
Shane Warne, an Australian legend, is widely regarded as one of the best bowlers ever in cricket. He was known for his right-arm-leg-spin bowling and is credited with revolutionizing spin bowling. Warne is the second-highest wicket-taker in test cricket, with 708 wickets in his career. One of his most famous moments came in 1993 when he bowled the “Ball of the Country,” a delivery that stunned between and fans alike. Warne’s mastery of spin made him an icon of the sport.
James Anderson from England is a modern-day legend and a master of swing bowling. He has taken 704 wickets in 350 innings, making him the third-highest wicket-taker in test cricket. Anderson has been playing since 2003 and continuous to dominate at the highest level. Known for his ability to move the ball both ways, he is the only fast bowler to cross 600 test wickets. He also holds the record for the second-highest number of test matches played, after Sachin Tendulkar.
The Highest wicket-takers in Test cricket history are legendary bowlers who have made a lasting impact on the game. Their remarkable skill and consistency have helped them achieve extraordinary milestones, earning them recognition as some of the greatest cricketers.
Here is the list of top-10 highest wicker-takers in Test cricket history:
| Name | Span | Wkts | Mat | Inns | Balls | Overs | Mdns |
| M Muralitharan (ICC/SL) | 1992-2010 | 800 | 133 | 230 | 44039 | 7339.5 | 1794 |
| SK Warne (AUS) | 1992-2007 | 708 | 145 | 273 | 40705 | 6784.1 | 1761 |
| JM Anderson (ENG) | 2003-2024 | 704 | 188 | 350 | 40037 | 6672.5 | 1730 |
| A Kumble (IND) | 1990-2008 | 619 | 132 | 236 | 40850 | 6808.2 | 1576 |
| SCJ Broad (ENG) | 2007-2023 | 604 | 167 | 309 | 33698 | 5616.2 | 1304 |
| GD McGrath (AUS) | 1993-2007 | 563 | 124 | 243 | 29248 | 4874.4 | 1470 |
| R Ashwin (IND) | 2011-2024 | 530 | 104 | 196 | 26730 | 4455 | 898 |
| NM Lyon (AUS) | 2011-2024 | 530 | 129 | 242 | 32761 | 5460.1 | 1044 |
| CA Walsh (WI) | 1984-2001 | 519 | 132 | 242 | 30019 | 5003.1 | 1144 |
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