Test cricket, often regarded as the ultimate format of the game, is a true test of skill, stamina, and strategy. Earning a spot among the top 50 Test wicket-takers is a remarkable achievement, showcasing consistent excellence over a long period. At the pinnacle of this elite group stands Muttiah Muralitharan, the Sri Lankan legend, who holds the record for the most Test wickets with an astonishing 800 dismissals. Below is the full list of the top 50 highest wicket-takers in Test cricket, spanning generations and highlighting their unparalleled contributions to the game.
Top 50 Highest Test Wicket-Takers
| Sl No. | Player | Matches | Wickets | Best Bowling | Average | Economy | Strike Rate |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| 1 | Muttiah Muralitharan (SL) | 133 | 800 | 9/51 | 22.72 | 2.47 | 55.04 |
| 2 | Shane Warne (AUS) | 145 | 708 | 8/71 | 25.41 | 2.65 | 57.49 |
| 3 | James Anderson (ENG) | 183 | 690 | 7/42 | 25.99 | 2.79 | 56.83 |
| 4 | Anil Kumble (IND) | 132 | 619 | 10/74 | 29.65 | 2.69 | 65.99 |
| 5 | Stuart Broad (ENG) | 167 | 604 | 8/15 | 27.68 | 2.95 | 55.79 |
| 6 | Glenn McGrath (AUS) | 124 | 563 | 8/24 | 21.64 | 2.49 | 51.95 |
| 7 | Courtney Walsh (WI) | 132 | 519 | 7/37 | 24.44 | 2.53 | 57.84 |
| 8 | Nathan Lyon (AUS) | 122 | 496 | 8/50 | 31.00 | 2.93 | 63.35 |
| 9 | Ravichandran Ashwin (IND) | 97 | 489 | 7/59 | 23.65 | 2.76 | 51.80 |
| 10 | Dale Steyn (SA) | 93 | 439 | 7/51 | 22.95 | 3.24 | 42.38 |
Read More:- Highest & Lowest Powerplay Score in T20 International
Top 10 Wicket-Takers in Detail
Muttiah Muralitharan – 800 Wickets
Sri Lanka’s Muttiah Muralitharan is the undisputed king of Test bowling, holding the record for the most wickets in Test cricket history. Across 133 matches, Muralitharan took 800 wickets at an average of 22.72, including an unmatched 67 five-wicket hauls and 22 ten-wicket match performances. Known for his unique bowling action, he faced criticism at times, but his dominance on the field remains unparalleled. Additionally, Muralitharan is also the leading wicket-taker in ODI history with 534 dismissals.
Shane Warne – 708 Wickets
Australian leg-spinning maestro Shane Warne ranks second on the list with 708 wickets from 145 matches. Renowned for his prodigious turn and flair, Warne played a pivotal role in Australia’s dominance during his career. He claimed 37 five-wicket hauls and 10 ten-wicket match hauls, cementing his legacy as one of the greatest bowlers in cricket history.
James Anderson – 690 Wickets
England’s James Anderson is the most successful fast bowler in Test cricket history. With 690 wickets in 183 matches and counting, Anderson has set a benchmark for longevity and consistency. His ability to adapt and evolve with age has kept him competitive well into his 40s. Anderson’s mastery of swing and seam continues to trouble batters worldwide.
Anil Kumble – 619 Wickets
India’s legendary leg-spinner Anil Kumble is fourth on the list with 619 wickets. Known for his pinpoint accuracy, Kumble was instrumental in several Indian victories. He is one of only two bowlers to take all ten wickets in a Test innings, a feat he achieved against Pakistan in 1999.
Stuart Broad – 604 Wickets
England’s Stuart Broad, known for his fiery spells, has formed a lethal partnership with Anderson over the years. With 604 wickets, including 20 five-wicket hauls, Broad’s best spell of 8/15 came in a memorable Ashes Test at Trent Bridge in 2015.
Glenn McGrath – 563 Wickets
Australia’s Glenn McGrath was the epitome of accuracy and discipline. His 563 wickets came at an astonishing average of 21.64. A key figure in Australia’s golden era, McGrath often delivered in high-pressure situations.
Courtney Walsh – 519 Wickets
West Indies’ Courtney Walsh was the first bowler to cross the 500-wicket mark in Tests. With 519 wickets, Walsh’s deadly combination with Curtly Ambrose terrorized batters during the late 20th century.
Nathan Lyon – 496 Wickets
Australia’s Nathan Lyon has been a cornerstone of their bowling attack since his debut in 2011. Closing in on 500 wickets, Lyon has been a consistent performer in all conditions, earning him the nickname “GOAT” (Greatest of All Time).
Ravichandran Ashwin – 489 Wickets
India’s Ravichandran Ashwin has been a match-winner in the longest format. With 489 wickets in just 97 matches, Ashwin boasts an exceptional strike rate and is one of the fastest bowlers to reach key milestones in Test cricket.
Dale Steyn – 439 Wickets
South African speedster Dale Steyn’s raw pace and swing made him one of the most feared bowlers of his generation. With 439 wickets at a remarkable average of 22.95, Steyn dominated during his prime and spent considerable time as the world’s top-ranked Test bowler.
Test cricket’s top wicket-takers have redefined the art of bowling, ensuring their legacies remain etched in the annals of the sport’s history. Each bowler on this list is a testament to skill, perseverance, and passion for the game.
Read More:- Top 15 Wicketkeepers with Most Catches in Cricket History