The Border-Gavaskar Trophy, an iconic Test cricket series between India and Australia, has been a battleground for some of the most memorable moments in cricket history. Since its inception in 1996, this series has not only celebrated the fierce rivalry between the two cricketing powerhouses but also highlighted the careers of many legendary bowlers who have left an indelible mark through their performances.
The prowess and impact of these bowlers are evident in the wickets they’ve taken, turning games and often the series itself in their team’s favor. From spin wizards to pace maestros, the top wicket-takers in the history of the Border-Gavaskar Trophy exemplify the high level of skill and competition that the series is known for. This list of elite bowlers showcases those who have excelled in the art of bowling in one of the most challenging series in the world of cricket.
1. Nathan Lyon (AUS)
Leading the tally, Nathan Lyon has clinched 116 wickets in 26 matches since his debut in 2011. His best figures in an innings stand at 8/50, with match figures of 12/286. Lyon has secured 9 five-wicket hauls and 2 ten-wicket hauls, marking him as a pivotal figure in Australia’s bowling lineup.
2. R Ashwin (IND)
R Ashwin closely follows with 114 wickets in 22 matches. His career, spanning from 2011 to 2023, showcases a best of 7/103 in an innings and 12/198 in a match. Ashwin’s consistency is highlighted by his 7 five-wicket hauls and a single ten-wicket haul.
3. Anil Kumble (IND)
Anil Kumble, a former Indian leg-spinner, captured 111 wickets in 20 matches between 1996 and 2008. Kumble’s best innings figures of 8/141 and match figures of 13/181 are among the best, with 10 five-wicket and 2 ten-wicket hauls.
4. Harbhajan Singh (IND)
Harbhajan Singh took 95 wickets in 18 matches from 1998 to 2013. His best bowling figures in an innings are 8/84, and in a match, 15/217. He boasts 7 five-wicket hauls and 3 ten-wicket hauls.
5. Ravindra Jadeja (IND)
Ravindra Jadeja has taken 85 wickets in 16 matches since 2013. His best innings bowling is 7/42, with a match best of 10/110. Jadeja has 5 five-wicket hauls and 1 ten-wicket haul, underlining his impact as a versatile all-rounder.
6. Zaheer Khan (IND)
Zaheer Khan, the fast bowler, notched up 61 wickets in 19 matches between 2001 and 2012, with best bowling figures of 5/91 in an innings and 8/137 in a match, securing 3 five-wicket hauls.
7. Ishant Sharma (IND)
Ishant Sharma has collected 59 wickets across 25 matches from 2008 to 2018. His best of 4/41 in an innings and 7/117 in a match highlight his role in India’s pace attack.
8. Brett Lee (AUS)
In just 12 matches between 1999 and 2008, Brett Lee took 53 wickets with an innings best of 5/47 and a match best of 7/78, indicating his pace and precision.
9. Josh Hazlewood (AUS)
Since 2014, Josh Hazlewood has secured 51 wickets in 15 matches. His top figures are 6/67 in an innings and 7/142 in a match, along with 4 five-wicket hauls.
10. Glenn McGrath (AUS)
Glenn McGrath rounded out the top ten with 51 wickets in 11 matches, featuring an innings best of 5/48 and a match best of 10/103, demonstrating his lethal accuracy and control.
These bowlers have played crucial roles in the dynamics of the Border-Gavaskar Trophy, often turning the tide of matches with their skill and perseverance. Their achievements not only highlight their individual talents but also the intensity and prestige of the encounters between India and Australia.