Most Wickets Taken in ICC World Test Championship

The ICC World Test Championship (WTC) has breathed new life into the longest format of cricket, turning bilateral series into high-stakes contests. Since the WTC's inception in 2019, the competition has seen bowlers play an instrumental role in their team’s success, with many delivering unforgettable performances. Bowlers who can take consistent wickets across different conditions are the backbone of any successful Test side.

In this blog, we’ll dive into the Most Wickets Taken in ICC World Test Championship, highlighting the bowlers who have made a significant impact with their skill, accuracy, and determination. Let’s celebrate these wicket-takers who have shined on the biggest stage for Test cricket.

1. Ravichandran Ashwin (India)

When it comes to taking the Most Wickets in ICC World Test Championship, Ravichandran Ashwin stands tall. The Indian off-spinner has been one of the most consistent and reliable bowlers in Test cricket over the last decade. Ashwin's ability to adapt to different pitches, combined with his intelligence and variations, makes him a formidable bowler.

Why Ashwin is a WTC Giant:

Ashwin thrives on turning tracks, but his success isn't limited to home conditions. His clever use of variations, from the carrom ball to the traditional off-break, has baffled batsmen worldwide. In the inaugural WTC cycle (2019-21), Ashwin played a pivotal role in India's journey to the final.

Key Stats:

• Total Wickets: 71 in the first WTC cycle (2019-21).

• Best Figures: 7/145 against South Africa in 2019.

• Key Performance: His contributions in India’s 2-1 series victory against Australia in 2020-21 were critical.

Ashwin’s knack for taking wickets in crucial moments makes him one of the standout bowlers in the ICC World Test Championship.

2. Pat Cummins (Australia)

Australia’s premier fast bowler and Test captain, Pat Cummins, has been one of the leading wicket-takers in the ICC World Test Championship. Known for his relentless accuracy, pace, and ability to extract bounce from any surface, Cummins has been a consistent performer for Australia.

Why Cummins Stands Out:

Cummins' versatility allows him to be effective on different types of pitches, whether in Australia, England, or India. His stamina, discipline, and leadership qualities have made him a vital part of Australia's Test setup.

Key Stats:

• Total Wickets: 70 in the first WTC cycle (2019-21).

• Best Figures: 5/28 against Pakistan in 2019.

• Key Performance: His consistent performances during the 2019 Ashes series, where he picked up crucial wickets, helped Australia retain the urn.

Cummins’ ability to break partnerships and lead the bowling attack ensures Australia remains a dominant force in the ICC World Test Championship.

Check Out:- India Left Reeling On Day Three Vs Australia

3. Stuart Broad (England)

A stalwart of English cricket, Stuart Broad has been one of the top wicket-takers in the ICC World Test Championship. Known for his ability to swing the ball and deliver game-changing spells, Broad has been a vital cog in England’s bowling attack.

Why Broad is a WTC Star:

Broad's experience and knack for delivering breakthroughs when his team needs them the most set him apart. His ability to generate movement off the pitch and in the air, especially in English conditions, makes him a constant threat to any batting lineup.

Key Stats:

• Total Wickets: 69 in the first WTC cycle (2019-21).

• Best Figures: 6/31 against the West Indies in 2020.

• Key Performance: His 10-wicket match haul against the West Indies at Old Trafford was a standout performance.

Broad's consistency and longevity ensure he remains one of the key bowlers in the ICC World Test Championship.

4. Tim Southee (New Zealand)

Tim Southee has been a linchpin of New Zealand's bowling attack and a major reason for their success in the ICC World Test Championship. Known for his ability to swing the ball both ways, Southee has played a crucial role in New Zealand's journey to becoming the inaugural WTC champions.

Why Southee Shines:

Southee's control, combined with his ability to exploit conditions, especially in New Zealand, makes him a dangerous bowler. His experience and ability to lead from the front have helped New Zealand become a formidable Test side.

Key Stats:

• Total Wickets: 56 in the first WTC cycle (2019-21).

• Best Figures: 5/32 against India in the WTC Final.

• Key Performance: His outstanding performance in the WTC Final against India, where he took key wickets, was instrumental in New Zealand's triumph.

Southee’s consistency and ability to perform in clutch situations make him one of the standout bowlers in the ICC World Test Championship.

5. Nathan Lyon (Australia)

Australia's premier off-spinner, Nathan Lyon, has been a constant performer in the ICC World Test Championship. Known for his accuracy, flight, and ability to extract bounce, Lyon has played a pivotal role in Australia’s success in Test cricket.

Why Lyon is Crucial:

Lyon's ability to bowl long spells and take wickets in crucial moments gives Australia a reliable spin option. He is particularly dangerous on wearing pitches where his bounce and turn become difficult for batsmen to handle.

Key Stats:

• Total Wickets: 56 in the first WTC cycle (2019-21).

• Best Figures: 6/49 against New Zealand in 2020.

• Key Performance: His contributions during the 2019 Ashes series helped Australia retain the urn in England.

Lyon’s experience and skill make him a key part of Australia’s bowling attack in the ICC World Test Championship.

Conclusion

The ICC World Test Championship has given bowlers a platform to showcase their skills in high-stakes matches. Bowlers like Ravichandran Ashwin, Pat Cummins, Stuart Broad, Tim Southee, and Nathan Lyon have been instrumental in their teams' successes, consistently delivering match-winning performances.

These players have demonstrated that in Test cricket, taking wickets at the right time can make all the difference. As the WTC continues to evolve, we can expect more thrilling performances from these bowling maestros and future stars who will strive to make their mark.

Check Out:- India Left Reeling On Day Three Vs Australia