Most Wickets in Test Cricket
Test cricket is often considered the purest form of the game, and the players who excel in this format are revered for their consistency, skill, and ability to perform under challenging conditions.
Among the most coveted records in Test cricket is the number of wickets a bowler can take, and it’s no surprise that the players who top this list have had long, illustrious careers.
Aakash Deep July 2025
In the history of Test cricket, taking all 10 wickets in an innings is an extremely rare and prestigious feat.
His 10-wicket haul in a major Test series against a strong opponent like England marks him as a player to watch out for. His rise from domestic cricket to making an impact on the international stage has generated excitement and curiosity about his future prospects in Indian cricket.
For Aakash Deep to achieve such a feat, particularly on a foreign tour, has brought him into the spotlight. It showcases not just his skill but his mental resilience in handling pressure in an international match.
England is known for its challenging conditions, especially for fast bowlers and spinners who need to adjust to swing, seam, and occasionally overcast conditions.
Aakash Deep’s achievement is even more significant because he achieved this remarkable feat in England, a place where most visiting bowlers struggle to find their rhythm.
Let’s dive into the top 10 cricketers with the most wickets in Test cricket as of 2023, and examine what makes their performances stand out.
1. Muttiah Muralitharan (Sri Lanka) – 800 Wickets
Muttiah Muralitharan, the “Wizard of Sri Lanka,” holds the record for the most wickets in Test cricket. He took an astounding 800 wickets in 133 matches, a feat that remains unbeaten. Known for his legendary off-spin and unorthodox bowling style, Muralitharan’s ability to turn the ball sharply, even on flat pitches, made him a nightmare for batsmen. His records also include taking 5 wickets in an innings 67 times, which further solidifies his position as one of the greatest bowlers in history.
Why He’s Known For:
Muralitharan’s most significant achievement is his unplayable “doosra,” a delivery that would spin in the opposite direction to his stock ball. His dominance over a 20-year career, along with his resilience and skill, made him a match-winner for Sri Lanka.
2. Shane Warne (Australia) – 708 Wickets
Shane Warne is a legend of leg-spin and regarded as one of the best bowlers ever. With 708 wickets in 145 Test matches, Warne was known for his deceptive leg breaks, masterful flight, and pinpoint accuracy. His famous “Ball of the Century” to Mike Gatting in 1993 is still remembered as one of the greatest deliveries in cricket history.
Why He’s Known For:
Warne’s ability to turn the ball sharply and his tactical brilliance made him a match-winner. His presence on the field and his flair for the dramatic made him a player who was not only effective but entertaining as well.
3. James Anderson (England) – 685 Wickets
James Anderson is the leading fast bowler in terms of Test wickets. As of 2023, he has taken 685 wickets in 179 Test matches. Known for his precision, swing, and ability to bowl for long spells, Anderson has been a mainstay for England for more than a decade. His skill with the new ball and ability to move it both ways in different conditions have made him one of the most formidable bowlers of his generation.
Why He’s Known For:
Anderson is known for his ability to exploit conditions and swing the ball both ways, especially in English conditions. His longevity and fitness, continuing to bowl at the highest level well into his late 30s, set him apart.
4. Ravichandran Ashwin (India) – 300+ Wickets
Ravichandran Ashwin, the leading spinner in Indian cricket, has quickly moved up the ranks with over 300 wickets in just 81 Test matches. Known for his sharp spin and ability to outthink batsmen, Ashwin’s range of deliveries, including the carrom ball, makes him a highly unpredictable bowler. His performances in the subcontinent, where he thrives on turning wickets, have been a hallmark of his career.
Why He’s Known For:
Ashwin’s ability to consistently bowl long spells, his tactical nous, and his innovation with spin deliveries make him stand out. He is one of the most versatile spinners, capable of dominating both at home and abroad.
5. Stuart Broad (England) – 600+ Wickets
Stuart Broad has claimed over 600 wickets in his Test career, which started in 2006. A reliable fast bowler with the ability to generate bounce and swing, Broad has been a key figure for England in the longest format. His partnership with James Anderson has been instrumental in England’s success over the past decade.
Why He’s Known For:
Broad’s ability to pick up wickets in bunches, especially during critical moments, and his success in all conditions make him one of the best fast bowlers of his era.
6. Jacques Kallis (South Africa) – 290+ Wickets
Jacques Kallis is one of the greatest all-rounders in cricket history. Along with his batting prowess, Kallis took over 290 wickets in 166 Test matches. His ability to bowl at different speeds and his accuracy made him a constant threat with the ball.
Why He’s Known For:
Kallis is known for his all-round capabilities. His ability to contribute both with the bat and the ball, along with his dominance in the middle overs, made him one of the most complete cricketers ever.
7. Anil Kumble (India) – 619 Wickets
Anil Kumble, India’s highest wicket-taker in Test cricket, took 619 wickets in 132 matches. Known for his resilience and consistency, Kumble was a classical leg-spinner who could also bowl with precision on flat, dry pitches. His famous 10-wicket haul against Pakistan in 1999 is one of the most remarkable achievements in Test cricket history.
Why He’s Known For:
Kumble’s persistence and ability to bowl long spells, especially on non-turning wickets, set him apart. His 10 wickets in an innings remain a monumental achievement.
8. Dale Steyn (South Africa) – 439 Wickets
Dale Steyn was one of the fastest bowlers of his generation, taking 439 wickets in 93 Test matches. Known for his aggressive pace, swing, and ability to hit the right lengths consistently, Steyn was one of the most feared bowlers in world cricket.
Why He’s Known For:
Steyn’s fiery pace and ability to bowl with intensity made him a wicket-taking machine. His performances in challenging overseas conditions, especially in Australia and England, cemented his place as one of the all-time greats.
9. Courtney Walsh (West Indies) – 519 Wickets
Courtney Walsh, the legendary West Indian fast bowler, claimed 519 wickets in 132 Test matches. Known for his pace and accuracy, Walsh’s longevity and his consistency made him one of the finest fast bowlers of his era.
Why He’s Known For:
Walsh’s ability to deliver dangerous spells consistently, coupled with his accuracy and aggression, earned him a place among the greats. His partnership with Curtly Ambrose was pivotal in West Indies’ dominance in the 1990s.
10. Ravindra Jadeja (India) – 250+ Wickets
Ravindra Jadeja is a modern-day legend for India, taking over 250 wickets in Test cricket as of 2023. As an all-rounder, Jadeja provides India with a crucial spin option, and his accuracy and variations in the middle overs have made him a standout performer. His ability to bowl at high speeds while maintaining accuracy has earned him recognition as one of the best left-arm spinners in the world.
Why He’s Known For:
Jadeja’s all-round capabilities, particularly his fielding and batting, add to his immense value as a Test cricketer. His consistency and ability to perform in the most pressure-filled situations make him an indispensable part of India’s Test team.
Conclusion
These cricketers have etched their names in history through their sheer skill, determination, and consistency. Each one has a unique style and a distinct contribution to their team’s success. Whether it’s Muttiah Muralitharan’s unplayable spin or James Anderson’s swing, their performances have shaped the modern era of Test cricket and continue to inspire upcoming players around the world.