Being a successful bowler in Test cricket requires a lot, both physically and mentally. Talent can only get you so far in the five-day format, but to be considered a true great, it needs to be backed up by hard work, sharpness, determination, desire, and several other intangibles that separate the best from the rest. As such, when it comes to discussing the highest wicket-takers in Tests, we talk about some truly special bowlers that dazzled fans and bamboozled batters, smashing numerous records along the way.
From the most beguiling spinners to the cleverest pacers; long-retired legends to current, seemingly ageless stars, every player on the following list has created magic with the red ball in hand.
Here is the rundown on the top five highest wicket-takers in Tests
# 5. Stuart Broad (598*)
The second current player to make it to this ‘highest wicket-taker in Tests’ list, Stuart Broad has forged a formidable bowling partnership with James Anderson (mentioned above) over the years. Were it not for his aforementioned fast-bowling companion, perhaps Broad might be more appreciated for the numbers he has racked up in his career.
Aided by his lean and lengthy figure, Broad’s ability to extract bounce and movement from even the most docile pitches has earned him 598 wickets in 165 Test matches, with the landmark of 600 well within reach. And, although the numbers have dipped over the years, Broad has also made significant contributions with the bat, including a sensational 169 against Pakistan at Lords in 2010, the highest score by an Englishman batting at number nine in Tests. When he does finally hang up his boots, he will doubtless be regarded as a modern great, but there is a long way to go for that just yet, as he shows no signs of stopping any time soon.
