Most Wicket-Takers in England vs India Test: Test cricket between England and India has always been filled with intensity, passion, and unforgettable moments. Over the decades, this rivalry has witnessed some phenomenal bowling performances that have changed the course of matches and created history. This article celebrates the top 5 most Wicket-Takers in England vs India Test matches legends who not only picked up wickets but became game-changers for their teams.
Let’s explore these iconic players one by one, from No. 5 to No. 1, along with their remarkable achievements and stats.
List of Top 5 Most Wicket-Takers in England vs India Test History
5. Bishan Singh Bedi
Bishan Singh Bedi was not just a bowler he was an artist. With his smooth left-arm action, elegant flight, and clever variations, Bedi made life difficult for the English batters during the 1960s and 70s. Playing from 1967 to 1979, he featured in 22 Test matches against England and picked up 85 wickets, making him one of the top most Wicket-Takers in England vs India Test history.
What set Bedi apart was his ability to control the game without relying on speed. He was a master at creating pressure, forcing batters to make mistakes with his tight lines and deceptive loop. His best bowling performance came with 6 wickets for 71 runs, a spell that demonstrated the true beauty of classical spin bowling. Bedi’s economy rate and discipline were key to India’s bowling attack during his era, earning him a place among the Most Wicket-Takers in England vs India Test history.
| Matches | Wickets | Best Bowling |
| 22 | 85 | 6/71 |
4. Anil Kumble
Anil Kumble was the embodiment of grit, patience, and consistency. With his unique fast leg-spin, he became a nightmare for English batsmen during his career from 1990 to 2007. In 19 matches against England, Kumble scalped 92 wickets, putting him firmly among the most Wicket-Takers in England vs India Test matchups.
Unlike traditional leg-spinners who relied on big turn, Kumble focused on bounce and accuracy. His best figures of 7/115 showcased his ability to dismantle top orders and tailenders alike. Known as a match-winner in any condition, Kumble’s presence in the Indian team meant opposition batsmen could never relax. His fighting spirit was legendary, and he often bowled through pain and injury, earning massive respect from players across the globe.
| Matches | Wickets | Best Bowling |
| 19 | 92 | 7/115 |
3. BS Chandrasekhar
BS Chandrasekhar was one of the most unpredictable and dangerous leg-spinners India has ever produced. A polio-affected right arm became his strength, helping him generate unexpected spin and pace off the pitch. Between 1964 and 1979, he played 23 Tests against England and picked up 95 wickets, becoming one of the most Wicket-Takers in England vs India Test battles.
His unique action and unorthodox deliveries puzzled even the most experienced English batsmen. His incredible spell of 8/79 remains one of the best performances in this historic rivalry. Chandrasekhar’s role in India’s overseas victories was monumental. Despite challenges, he never backed down, and his fearless bowling inspired a generation of spinners.
| Matches | Wickets | Best Bowling |
| 23 | 95 | 8/79 |
2. Ravichandran Ashwin
Ravichandran Ashwin has redefined the art of spin bowling in the modern era. Starting in 2012, Ashwin has tormented England’s batting line-up with his clever use of variations, angles, and subtle changes in pace. In just 24 matches, he has taken an incredible 114 wickets, placing him second on the list of most Wicket-Takers in England vs India Test cricket.
Ashwin’s ability to outthink the batsman is what makes him so effective. Whether it’s the carrom ball, the arm ball, or the classical off-spin, he always has a plan. His best performance of 6/55 is one of many match-winning efforts. Ashwin’s sharp cricketing brain and fearless attitude make him one of India’s all-time greats in Test cricket. And with more matches to come, he might just rise to the top of this list.
| Matches | Wickets | Best Bowling |
| 24 | 114 | 6/55 |
1. James Anderson
At the top of the list is James Anderson, England’s most successful fast bowler in the history of Test cricket. Since 2006, Anderson has played 39 Tests against India and taken a stunning 149 wickets, making him the No. 1 most Wicket-Taker in England vs India Test encounters.
Anderson’s control, swing, and mastery with the red ball have troubled Indian batters in both English and Indian conditions. His best figures of 5/20 reflect his ability to deliver when it matters most. Known for his discipline and ability to move the ball both ways, Anderson has continued to evolve his game even into his 40s. His legendary partnership with the Dukes ball in England is feared by every visiting team, especially India.
James Anderson’s name is now etched in cricketing history as the bowler with the most Wicket-Takers in England vs India Test matches a true legend of the game.
| Matches | Wickets | Best Bowling |
| 39 | 149 | 5/20 |
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