Muttiah Muralitharan, the legendary Sri Lankan spinner, holds the record for the most Test wickets in cricket history, with an astonishing total of 800 wickets. This record has stood the test of time, and many cricket enthusiasts wonder if it can ever be broken.
Among the active bowlers, three contenders stand out: Kagiso Rabada, Nathan Lyon, and Ravichandran Ashwin.
In this article, we will explore why these bowlers have the potential to challenge Muralitharan’s record.
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3. Kagiso Rabada
Kagiso Rabada is a South African fast bowler who has made a significant impact in Test cricket. Currently, he has 299 Test wickets and is the leading wicket-taker among bowlers under the age of 30.
Reasons for Potential
- Youth and Longevity: At just 29 years old, Rabada has many years of cricket ahead of him. If he maintains his fitness and form, he can play for several more years, giving him ample opportunity to accumulate wickets.
- Consistent Performance: Rabada has shown remarkable consistency in his performances. He is known for his ability to take wickets in crucial moments, which is essential for a bowler aiming to break records.
- Adaptability: His ability to adapt to different conditions and formats makes him a formidable opponent. Rabada can bowl effectively in various conditions, which is crucial for a long Test career.
If Rabada continues on his current trajectory, he could be a serious contender for Muralitharan’s record in the coming years.
2. Nathan Lyon
Nathan Lyon, the Australian spinner, is another bowler who has the potential to challenge Muralitharan’s record. As of now, he has taken 530 Test wickets, making him one of the closest active bowlers to the record.
Reasons for Potential
- Experience: With a wealth of experience in Test cricket, Lyon has developed the skill set necessary to succeed over a long career. His experience allows him to handle pressure situations effectively.
- Consistency: Lyon is known for his ability to bowl economically while taking wickets regularly. His consistency is a key factor that can help him accumulate more wickets over time.
- Longevity in the Game: Although he is currently 36 years old, Lyon has shown that he can maintain his performance level. If he can extend his playing career, he may still have a chance to close the gap on Muralitharan’s record.
However, the challenge for Lyon is the physical demands of Test cricket as he ages. Nevertheless, his skill and experience make him a strong contender.
1. Ravichandran Ashwin
Ravichandran Ashwin, the Indian spinner, is currently one of the best bowlers in Test cricket, with 516 wickets to his name. He is known for his clever bowling and ability to outsmart batsmen.
Reasons for Potential
- Skill and Intelligence: Ashwin possesses a unique skill set that allows him to adapt his bowling style to different batsmen. His strategic approach to bowling makes him a dangerous competitor in Test matches.
- Fitness and Form: At 37 years old, Ashwin is still performing at a high level. His fitness regime and dedication to the sport have allowed him to remain competitive, which is crucial for accumulating wickets.
- Experience in Various Conditions: Ashwin has played extensively in different conditions, both at home and abroad. This versatility enhances his ability to take wickets consistently.
Despite being in his late thirties, Ashwin’s ongoing performance and tactical acumen keep him in the conversation as a potential record-breaker.
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