Cricket has produced some extraordinary bowling performances throughout its history. From devastating pace bowling to mesmerizing spin, the sport has seen bowlers achieve remarkable feats. This comprehensive guide covers the best bowling figures in cricket history across all formats.
Best Bowling Figures in Test Cricket
Jim Laker - 19/90 vs Australia (1956)
The most extraordinary bowling performance in Test cricket history belongs to Jim Laker. The English off-spinner took 19 wickets for 90 runs in the 4th Test against Australia at Old Trafford in 1956. This remains the best bowling figures in a Test match and is unlikely to ever be broken.
Laker's performance was so dominant that he took 9 wickets in the first innings and 10 wickets in the second innings. His accuracy and ability to extract turn from the pitch made him virtually unplayable.
Anil Kumble - 10/74 vs Pakistan (1999)
Anil Kumble became only the second bowler in Test history to take 10 wickets in an innings when he achieved the feat against Pakistan in Delhi in 1999. His figures of 10/74 helped India win the match by 212 runs.
Best Bowling Figures in ODIs
| Bowler | Figures | Against | Year |
|---|---|---|---|
| Chaminda Vaas | 8/19 | Zimbabwe | 2001 |
| Shahid Afridi | 7/12 | West Indies | 2013 |
| Glenn McGrath | 7/15 | Namibia | 2003 |
| Muttiah Muralitharan | 7/30 | India | 2000 |
Best Bowling Figures in T20 Internationals
T20 cricket is designed for batsmen, but some bowlers have managed extraordinary figures:
- Rashid Khan — 5/3 vs Ireland (2017)
- Ajantha Mendis — 6/8 vs Australia (2012)
- Yuzvendra Chahal — 6/25 vs England (2017)
Best Bowling Figures in IPL
The IPL has produced some spectacular bowling performances:
- Alzarri Joseph — 6/12 vs SRH (2019)
- Sohail Tanvir — 6/14 vs CSK (2008)
- Adam Zampa — 6/19 vs SRH (2016)
What Makes a Great Bowling Performance?
Several factors contribute to exceptional bowling figures:
- Accuracy: Consistent line and length is essential
- Variations: Changes in pace, angle, and trajectory
- Pitch conditions: Some pitches favor bowlers more than others
- Match situation: Pressure can affect both batsmen and bowlers
Frequently Asked Questions
Who has the best bowling figures in Test cricket?
Jim Laker has the best bowling figures in Test cricket with 19/90 against Australia in 1956.
Who has the best bowling figures in ODIs?
Chaminda Vaas has the best bowling figures in ODIs with 8/19 against Zimbabwe in 2001.
Who has the best bowling figures in T20 internationals?
Ajantha Mendis has the best bowling figures in T20Is with 6/8 against Australia in 2012.
Sources: ICC official records, ESPNcricinfo, Wisden Cricketers' Almanack
Last updated: July 2026 | Author: CricAI Editorial Team