In the history of Test cricket, taking ten wickets in a match is one of the highest achievements for any bowler. It shows dominance, endurance, and a match-winning impact. Only a few bowlers have consistently managed to achieve this rare milestone in their careers. This article brings you the top 10 bowlers with the Most Ten Wicket Hauls in Test cricket. We present each legend with a long, engaging description and a detailed stats table. Let’s count down from 10 to 1.
Table of Contents
List of Top 10 Powerful Bowlers with the Most Ten Wicket Hauls in Test Cricket
10. Imran Khan (Pakistan)
Imran Khan, the legendary captain and pace bowler from Pakistan, was the heart of his team’s bowling attack during the 1970s and 1980s. A leader on and off the field, Imran’s ability to swing the ball and strike in crucial moments helped Pakistan achieve major Test victories. Known for his sharp cricketing mind and lethal reverse swing, Imran Khan took Most Ten Wicket Hauls six times in his illustrious career.
| Category | Stat |
|---|---|
| Matches | 88 |
| Innings | 142 |
| Wickets | 362 |
| Best Bowling (Innings) | 8/58 |
| 5-fers | 23 |
| 10-fers | 6 |
9. Dennis Lillee (Australia)
Dennis Lillee was the face of aggressive fast bowling for Australia in the 1970s and early 1980s. Known for his pace, hostility, and never-give-up attitude, Lillee could turn a match with a fiery spell. He often rose to the occasion when his team needed breakthroughs. With Most Ten Wicket Hauls achieved seven times, Lillee was a true warrior of the game.
| Category | Stat |
| Matches | 70 |
| Innings | 132 |
| Wickets | 355 |
| Best Bowling (Innings) | 7/83 |
| 5-fers | 23 |
| 10-fers | 7 |
8. Clarrie Grimmett (Australia)
Clarrie Grimmett was a pioneer of leg-spin bowling in the early 20th century. He played at a time when spin bowling was evolving, and he brought great respect to the art. Grimmett’s accuracy and deception made him a nightmare for batsmen. He took Most Ten Wicket Hauls seven times in just 37 matches, which is a testament to his brilliance.
| Category | Stat |
| Matches | 37 |
| Innings | 67 |
| Wickets | 216 |
| Best Bowling (Innings) | 7/40 |
| 5-fers | 21 |
| 10-fers | 7 |
7. Sydney Barnes (England)
Sydney Barnes is one of the most unique bowlers in Test history. He played before World War I and took wickets at an astonishing average. Barnes combined pace and spin, using the seam to perfection. He had the ability to destroy any batting order, taking Most Ten Wicket Hauls seven times in just 27 Tests.
| Category | Stat |
| Matches | 27 |
| Innings | 50 |
| Wickets | 189 |
| Best Bowling (Innings) | 9/103 |
| 5-fers | 24 |
| 10-fers | 7 |
6. Anil Kumble (India)
Anil Kumble was India’s most successful spinner. Unlike traditional spinners, Kumble relied on bounce, speed, and accuracy. His relentless approach paid off, and he often bowled long spells. The highlight of his career was his 10/74 against Pakistan. Kumble took Most Ten Wicket Hauls eight times in his career and was a match-winner on every surface.
| Category | Stat |
| Matches | 132 |
| Innings | 236 |
| Wickets | 619 |
| Best Bowling (Innings) | 10/74 |
| 5-fers | 35 |
| 10-fers | 8 |
5. Ravichandran Ashwin (India)
R Ashwin is a modern-day spin wizard who has taken the cricketing world by storm. With clever variations, smart thinking, and consistency, he dominates even in an era of aggressive batting. Ashwin has played a crucial role in India’s success at home and abroad. With Most Ten Wicket Hauls eight times already, he is still active and can rise higher in this list.
| Category | Stat |
| Matches | 106 |
| Innings | 200 |
| Wickets | 537 |
| Best Bowling (Innings) | 7/59 |
| 5-fers | 37 |
| 10-fers | 8 |
4. Rangana Herath (Sri Lanka)
Rangana Herath stepped up for Sri Lanka after Muralitharan’s retirement. A left-arm spinner with a calm approach, Herath used flight and angle to perfection. He troubled batsmen consistently and turned many matches single-handedly. His consistency and control helped him achieve Most Ten Wicket Hauls nine times.
| Category | Stat |
| Matches | 93 |
| Innings | 170 |
| Wickets | 433 |
| Best Bowling (Innings) | 9/127 |
| 5-fers | 34 |
| 10-fers | 9 |
3. Sir Richard Hadlee (New Zealand)
Sir Richard Hadlee was the first true fast-bowling superstar from New Zealand. His deadly swing and accuracy made him a constant threat. He shouldered the bowling responsibilities almost single-handedly for his country. With Most Ten Wicket Hauls nine times, Hadlee redefined fast bowling in his era.
| Category | Stat |
| Matches | 86 |
| Innings | 150 |
| Wickets | 431 |
| Best Bowling (Innings) | 9/52 |
| 5-fers | 36 |
| 10-fers | 9 |
2. Shane Warne (Australia)
Shane Warne was the face of leg-spin revival in the 1990s. His magical deliveries and charismatic presence changed how the world viewed spin bowling. Warne could break partnerships, deceive top batsmen, and carry his team on his shoulders. He achieved Most Ten Wicket Hauls ten times and was a true entertainer.
| Category | Stat |
| Matches | 145 |
| Innings | 273 |
| Wickets | 708 |
| Best Bowling (Innings) | 8/71 |
| 5-fers | 37 |
| 10-fers | 10 |
1. Muttiah Muralitharan (Sri Lanka)
Muralitharan is, without doubt, the greatest spinner in Test history. His off-spin was a mystery for batters across generations. With incredible control, a big heart, and unmatched variations, Murali dominated for almost two decades. He holds the record for Most Ten Wicket Hauls in Test cricket with a staggering 22 times, a feat unlikely to be broken soon.
| Category | Stat |
| Matches | 133 |
| Innings | 230 |
| Wickets | 800 |
| Best Bowling (Innings) | 9/51 |
| 5-fers | 67 |
| 10-fers | 22 |
READ MORE:
- Top 10 Players with the Most Ducks for ICC World Test Championship
- Top 10 Bowlers with the Most Wickets in T20 Asia Cup: Legends Who Changed Matches
FAQ
What is a ten-wicket haul in Tests?
When a bowler takes 10 or more wickets in both innings of a single Test match.
Who has taken the most ten-wicket match hauls in Tests?
Muttiah Muralitharan with 22 ten-wicket hauls.
Which Indian bowler has the most ten-wicket hauls?
Ravichandran Ashwin with 8 ten-wicket match hauls.
Has any bowler taken all 10 wickets in an innings?
Yes, Anil Kumble did it once against Pakistan (10/74).
Are ten-wicket hauls common in Test cricket?
No, they are rare and signify a dominant bowling performance.