Top 5 Indian bowlers with most test wickets in SENA countries

Six Indian bowlers have taken more than 100 test wickets in SENA countries.

Test matches in SENA countries – South Africa, England, New Zealand, and Australia are considered the toughest challenge for Asian teams. These nations are known for their pace-friendly pitches which offer great carry and bounce for fast bowlers.

While India’s record in test cricket in SENA countries has been mixed, their bowling performance, especially in the 21st century, has been very convincing.

The Indian bowlers have scripted many memorable wins for their side in these four countries. In this article, we will look at the top five Indian bowlers with most test wickets in SENA countries.

Top five Indian bowlers with most test wickets in SENA countries

5. Zaheer Khan – 119 wickets

Known for his exceptional control with the new ball and mastery of reverse swing with the old ball, Zaheer Khan stands as the joint second-most successful Indian fast bowler in test cricket, behind only the legendary Kapil Dev with 311 test scalps.

Out of 311, Zaheer took 119 test wickets in SENA countries at an average of 31.47. His best bowling figures in these tests came in 2002 in Hamilton against New Zealand, where he picked up 5/29 in the first innings.

4. Mohammed Shami – 123 wickets

One of the most skilled bowlers of the current generation, Mohammed Shami boasts an impressive test record in SENA countries with 123 wickets at average of 32.88.

Shami’s tally has come in 34 tests and includes four five-wicket hauls. His best individual performance came in 2018 at Perth, where he took 6/56 to help India restrict Australia to 243 runs in second innings.

3. Ishant Sharma – 130 wickets

Known for bowling long spells, Ishant Sharma is one of the most underrated Indian fast bowlers. Sharma has taken 130 test wickets at an average of 36.86 in SENA countries. Ishant’s spell to Ricky Ponting in 2008 at Perth is regarded among the best spells by an Indian fast bowler on foreign soil.

Ishant’s impressive tally in SENA nations includes five five-wicket hauls. His best bowling figures in SENA countries came in 2014 at the Lord’s, where he registered 7/74 to guide India to a 95-run win.

2. Anil Kumble – 141 wickets

Former Indian captain Anil Kumble took 141 test wickets at an average of 37.04 in SENA countries. Leading the Indian bowling attack for almost two decades, Kumble’s tally includes five five-fors.

Kumble’s best performance in these countries came in 2004 at Sydney when he dismantled the Australian batting lineup with a spell of 8/141. In addition to his bowling record, he also has a remarkable hundred against England at the Oval.

1. Jasprit Bumrah – 143 wickets

The best fast bowler of his generation, Jasprit Bumrah has climbed past legends to sit at the top of this elite list.

Bumrah has an unbelievable record away from Asia. The Indian speedster has so far taken 143 test wickets in SENA countries at an average of 21.23, including eighth five-wicket hauls.

What makes him stand out is the fact that 70% of his test career wickets have come in these countries. Bumrah has delivered several iconic performances overseas, but his most impressive performance came in 2018 against Australia at Melbourne, where he picked 6/33 to guide India to a comfortable win.

(All stats are updated till 30th December 2024)

For more updates, follow Khel Now Cricket on Facebook, Twitter, Instagram, Youtube; download the Khel Now Android App or IOS App and join our community on Whatsapp & Telegram.