When it comes to Test cricket, bowlers play a crucial role in turning the game around and putting their teams in commanding positions.
Dear Lykkers, In 2024, a select few have consistently proven themselves as the best in the business. These bowlers are known for their accuracy, pace, and ability to perform in the toughest conditions.
Let's take a look at the top 5 best bowlers in Test cricket right now.
1. Jasprit Bumrah – India's Lethal Weapon
Jasprit Bumrah is undoubtedly one of the best fast bowlers in the world today. Known for his unusual, unorthodox action, Bumrah has mastered the art of delivering deadly yorkers, reverse swing, and consistently hitting the right lengths. His ability to bowl at extreme speeds while maintaining accuracy has made him a nightmare for batsmen across the globe.
Bumrah's performance in overseas Test conditions, especially in Australia and England, has been phenomenal. His calmness under pressure and knack for taking wickets when it matters most make him India's most valuable asset in Test cricket. His 2024 comeback after injury has only reaffirmed his status as one of the greatest fast bowlers of this era.
Every Jasprit Bumrah wicket at Cricket World Cup 2023
Video By ICC
2. Pat Cummins – The Australian Captain Marvel
The towering Aussie pacer and current Test captain, Pat Cummins, has been at the pinnacle of fast bowling for the past few years. With his exceptional pace, control, and ability to move the ball both ways, Cummins has been the backbone of Australia's bowling attack. His lethal bouncers and ability to extract extra bounce from any pitch make him a deadly proposition for any batsman.
Cummins consistently delivers match-winning spells, and his leadership on the field is inspiring. He's one of the most consistent bowlers in the world and a key player in Australia's success in Test cricket.
3. Kagiso Rabada – South Africa's Bowling Sensation
Kagiso Rabada has been South Africa's leading fast bowler in recent years. His raw pace, coupled with his aggressive style, makes him a force to be reckoned with. Rabada can swing the ball both ways and excels at bowling long spells, maintaining pressure on the batsmen and striking when it matters.
Rabada's ability to deliver crucial wickets, especially in challenging conditions, sets him apart as one of the best Test bowlers in the world. He remains a vital cog in South Africa's bowling lineup and continues to terrorize opposition batsmen.
4. James Anderson – England's Evergreen Swing Master
At the age of 41, James Anderson is still going strong and remains one of the finest swing bowlers in the history of Test cricket. With over 600 Test wickets, Anderson's experience, skill, and mastery of swing bowling make him a legend of the game. He thrives in English conditions but has proven his mettle worldwide.
Anderson's ability to swing the ball both in and out, combined with his precision, allows him to consistently trouble even the best batsmen. His longevity and continued effectiveness in Test cricket make him one of the top bowlers, even today.
5. Shaheen Afridi-A Young Speedster
Shaheen Afridi, a Left-arm pace sensation, is one of the most exciting bowlers to watch. With his tall stature, Afridi can extract steep bounce and generate serious pace. He's known for his ability to strike with the new ball, often taking early wickets, which puts his team in a commanding position.
Afridi's ability to swing the ball at high speeds makes him a dangerous prospect in all conditions. His consistent performances have made him a crucial part of the bowling attack in Test cricket.
These five bowlers are at the top of their game, constantly challenging the world's best batsmen and delivering match-winning performances. If it's Jasprit Bumrah's incredible versatility, Pat Cummins' aggression, Rabada's fiery spells, James Anderson's swing mastery, or Shaheen Afridi's raw pace, each of these bowlers adds a unique dimension to Test cricket.
Their dominance on the field ensures that the art of bowling remains alive and well in the longest format of the game!