The rivalry between India and Australia in Test cricket has birthed some of the most memorable battles on the cricket pitch, with Indian bowlers often playing pivotal roles in these encounters. Over the years, certain bowlers have risen above the fray, not just challenging the Aussies but setting benchmarks in cricketing history. This article celebrates three such Indian bowlers who have taken the most wickets in a Test series against Australia, showcasing their skill, strategy, and sheer dominance in this historic rivalry.
Bishan Singh Bedi – 31 Wickets
Bishan Singh Bedi, one of the early masters of left-arm spin in India, had a defining moment during the 1977-78 tour to Australia. Here, Bedi showcased his craft by becoming the leading wicket-taker of the series, capturing 31 wickets in five matches at an average of 23.87. His best figures of 5/51 at the Gabba were a testament to his control and guile. This performance cemented his place as the third-highest wicket-taker by an Indian in a Test series against Australia. Bedi, who left us in 2023, played 67 Tests for India, amassing 266 wickets, and his influence on Indian cricket, particularly in spin bowling, remains profound.
Harbhajan Singh – 32 Wickets
Harbhajan Singh’s name is synonymous with one of the greatest turnarounds in Test cricket history during the 2001 series when Australia toured India. Harbhajan, with his off-spin, took 32 wickets in four Tests at an average of 17, a feat that stands as the most by an Indian spinner in a series against the Aussies. After a lukewarm start in Mumbai, Harbhajan’s performance in Kolkata was nothing short of spectacular, especially with his hat-trick against Ponting, Gilchrist, and Warne, making him the first Indian to achieve this in Tests. His contributions in Kolkata and Chennai, where he took 15 wickets, were instrumental in India’s series victory, with his 8/84 in Chennai being his career-best.
Jasprit Bumrah – 32 Wickets
Jasprit Bumrah has redefined fast bowling for India, particularly in the recent Border-Gavaskar Trophy. His exceptional performance during the series made him the record holder for the most wickets by an Indian bowler against Australia in a series. Bumrah captured 32 wickets in just nine innings, at an awe-inspiring average of 13.06, with his best being 6/76 in Brisbane. His series was marked by consistent performances, including two four-wicket hauls and three five-wicket hauls. Unfortunately, a back spasm during the final match of the series in Sydney curtailed his potential to add more to his already impressive tally, but his performances had already left an indelible mark on the series.
In Summary
The tales of Bishan Singh Bedi, Harbhajan Singh, and Jasprit Bumrah are not just about numbers; they are stories of skill, resilience, and the art of mastering one of cricket’s toughest rivalries. Each of these bowlers has left a legacy, not only in terms of wickets but in how they changed the narrative of Indian cricket against Australia. Their performances are a testament to the evolution of Indian bowling, from the spin-dominated eras to the contemporary pace revolution. These three have not only contributed to some of India’s most memorable cricketing moments but have also inspired future generations to challenge and excel against cricket’s formidable foes.
