Australia’s fast, bouncy pitches are a dream for bowlers, especially pacers, creating perfect conditions for Test cricket. Over the years, India has faced fierce competition from Australia, but Indian bowlers both pacers and spinners have delivered remarkable performances.
The highest wicket takers for India in Australia have consistently excelled in these challenging conditions. As we look ahead to the Border-Gavaskar Trophy 2024/25, let’s review the top 5 wicket-takers for India in Test matches played in Australia, whose performances have shaped India’s success on Australian soil.
List of 5 Highest Wicket Takers for India in Australia
| Rank | Bowler | Wickets | Matches |
|---|---|---|---|
| 1 | Kapil Dev | 51 | 11 |
| 2 | Anil Kumble | 49 | 10 |
| 3 | Ravichandran Ashwin | 39 | 10 |
| 4 | Bishan Singh Bedi | 35 | 7 |
| 5 | Jasprit Bumrah | 32 | 7 |
5. Jasprit Bumrah – 32 wickets
Jasprit Bumrah, one of India’s top modern-day bowlers, has made a huge mark in Australia, taking 32 wickets in just 7 Tests. His pace, swing, and deadly yorkers have been a challenge for Australian batters.
His most impressive performance came during the 2018-19 series, where he claimed 21 wickets, including a match-winning 6/33 in Melbourne. Bumrah’s success against Australia’s strong batting lineup in such a short period is a remarkable achievement in India’s fast-bowling history.
ALSO READ: Top 5 Most Successful Captains in Women’s Cricket
4. Bishan Singh Bedi – 35 wickets
Bishan Singh Bedi, a legendary left-arm spinner from India, was a constant threat to Australia throughout his career. In 7 Tests played in Australia, Bedi took 35 wickets, showcasing his skill in flight, turn, and deceptive variations.
His standout performance came during the 1977-78 series, where his clever spin bowling troubled Australian batsmen, taking important wickets and controlling the runs. Bedi’s success in Australia is a highlight of India’s spin dominance in Test cricket.
3. Ravichandran Ashwin – 39 wickets
Ravichandran Ashwin, one of India’s greatest spinners, ranks third among the highest wicket takers for India in Australia, with 39 wickets in 10 Tests. His best performances came in the 2020-21 series, where he played a vital role in India’s historic victory, taking crucial wickets and keeping the runs in check.
The highest wicket takers for India in Australia list features Ashwin, whose ability to dismiss Australian star Steve Smith several times during that series is unforgettable. Even at 38, Ashwin continues to be a key figure in India’s Test lineup, remaining an essential part of their bowling attack.
2. Anil Kumble – 49 wickets
Anil Kumble, one of the highest wicket takers for India in Australia, is widely regarded as one of the greatest spinners in Indian cricket history. Over his three tours to Australia between 1999 and 2008, Kumble claimed 49 wickets in 10 Tests, showcasing his consistency and skill on Australian soil.
Kumble’s leadership and bowling during the 2007-08 series were pivotal. As one of the highest wicket takers for India in Australia, he claimed an impressive 20 wickets across four Tests. His ability to generate bounce on Australia’s pitches, even those less favorable to spinners, made him a dangerous weapon for the Indian team.
1. Kapil Dev – 51 wickets
Kapil Dev, India’s legendary all-rounder, is the highest wicket taker for India in Australia with 51 wickets in 11 Tests, playing a key role in India’s success during his three tours to Australia.
In the 1980-81 series in Melbourne, he claimed 5/28, leading India to a historic win. Kapil’s performance solidified his place as one of the highest wicket takers for India in Australia.
In 1985, he took 8/106 in Adelaide and ended the 1991-92 series with a career-best 25 wickets, further enhancing his reputation as one of the highest wicket takers for India in Australia.
READ MORE:
