Australia’s greatest Ashes XI revealed: The best middle order ever?

Australia’s Ashes dominance has been built on brilliance, aggression, and unmatched consistency.

This all-time Australian XI showcases the greatest batters, bowlers, and all-rounders who struck fear into England and defined eras of cricketing excellence.

From Bradman’s genius at the crease to Warne’s magical spin and Cummins’ relentless pace, each player brought match-winning skill, leadership, and resilience.

Together, they form a team that embodies Australia’s legacy of dominance, strategy, and unforgettable Ashes triumphs.

Cricket365’s greatest Australia Ashes XI of all time:

1. Don Bradman

• Ashes runs: 5028
• Ashes batting average: 89.78
• Ashes centuries: 19

Bradman needs little introduction; he was Australia’s unbeatable cornerstone.

His astonishing consistency and ability to dominate English bowling at home and away gave Australia a colossal edge in every Ashes series he played.

Bradman’s presence defined an era, setting the standard for excellence.

2. Justin Langer

• Ashes runs: 1658
• Ashes batting average: 50.24
• Ashes centuries: 5

Langer was Australia’s dependable left-hand anchor at the top, particularly away from home.

His resilience against hostile bowling in England and Australia provided the team with steady starts, allowing middle-order players to capitalise.

Langer’s grit and mental toughness were crucial in stabilising innings under pressure.

3. Ricky Ponting

• Ashes runs: 2476
• Ashes batting average: 44.21
• Ashes centuries: 8

Ponting combined flair with ruthless efficiency, often dominating English bowling with authority.

His ability to play aggressive yet calculated cricket in tough conditions made him a match-winner.

As captain, his leadership and batting under pressure often swung the Ashes in Australia’s favour.

4. Steve Smith

• Ashes runs: 3417
• Ashes batting average: 56.01
• Ashes centuries: 12

Smith’s unorthodox style masks a rock-solid technique that thrives under Ashes pressure, especially in England.

He consistently scored big in high-stakes situations, turning matches with resilience and composure.

His adaptability and psychological fortitude have made him Australia’s most reliable middle-order batsman of the modern era.

5. Michael Clarke

• Ashes runs: 2241
• Ashes batting average: 40.74
• Ashes centuries: 7

Clarke’s contributions are often underappreciated, as he dominated while leading his country in one of the toughest periods for Australia in their post-2005 Ashes rebuild.

As captain and key middle-order batter, he guided Australia through tense Ashes battles, particularly abroad.

His quality has helped anchor innings and accelerate when needed, providing balance, while his tactical strength added strategic depth to Australia’s approach.

6. Allen Border

• Ashes runs: 3222
• Ashes batting average: 55.55
• Ashes centuries: 7

Border’s leadership and consistency were the bedrock of Australia’s batting during his era.

His ability to bat for long periods, often under intense English bowling, provided the team with stability.

Border’s resilience and determination made him the backbone of multiple Ashes campaigns.

7. Adam Gilchrist

• Ashes runs: 1083
• Ashes batting average: 45.12
• Ashes centuries: 3

Gilchrist redefined the role of a keeper-batsman, providing Australia with instant momentum at the top and middle.

His ability to attack from the outset put England on the back foot, while his wicketkeeping added security behind the stumps.

He often changed the complexion of Ashes matches within a few overs.

8. Pat Cummins

• Ashes wickets: 91
• Ashes bowling average: 24.10
• Ashes five-wicket hauls: 2

Cummins’ pace, accuracy, and ability to bowl long, effective spells made him a lethal weapon for Australia.

He regularly broke key partnerships, especially away from home, and could exploit any conditions.

Leadership in the bowling attack ensured Australia always had an incisive strike option.

9. Shane Warne

• Ashes wickets: 195
• Ashes bowling average: 23.25
• Ashes five-wicket hauls: 11

Warne’s leg-spin was the ultimate X-factor for Australia.

His ability to turn games with breakthroughs, particularly at crucial moments, made him indispensable.

The all-time leading Ashes wicket taker’s skill in out-thinking batsmen added an unrivalled edge, and he dominated English batsmen both home and away.

10. Dennis Lillee

• Ashes wickets: 128
• Ashes bowling average: 22.32
• Ashes five-wicket hauls: 7

Lillee terrorised English batsmen with pace, aggression, and precision.

He was Australia’s go-to match-winner with the ball, especially in critical situations.

Lillee’s aggression not only produced wickets but also intimidated the opposition, setting the tone for the Australian attack.

11. Glen McGrath

• Ashes wickets: 157
• Ashes bowling average: 20.92
• Ashes five-wicket hauls: 10

McGrath’s accuracy and relentless line-and-length bowling made him almost unplayable in Ashes conditions.

He was particularly deadly at home, but his ability to maintain discipline abroad ensured consistent pressure.

Incredible reliability allowed Australia’s fast-bowling unit to dominate English line-ups over the years.

READ MORE: Australia’s projected Ashes XI: Who will take on Bazball Down Under?

 

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The 5 most prolific Test openers of 2025

The role of the Test opener remains one of cricket’s most exacting challenges. Walking out to face the new ball against fresh fast bowlers requires technique, patience and mental fortitude.

In 2025, several openers have risen to the occasion, delivering runs and setting foundations for their sides in high-pressure contests.

With Test cricket series currently on the go involving India, the West Indies, Pakistan and South Africa, let’s take a moment to look at the leading run-scorers among Test openers thus far in 2025.

1. KL Rahul (India)

• 649 runs
• 13 innings
• 49.92 average

After several years of fluctuating form and battling for his place in the side, KL Rahul has rediscovered his rhythm in 2025. Returning to the top of the order after stints in the middle, he has been India’s most consistent run-getter across challenging conditions.

His ability to adapt, whether grinding out runs on tricky surfaces or unfurling elegant stroke-play on flatter decks, has stood out.

The bulk of Rahul’s tally of 649 runs came in the hard-fought five Test series against England although he also managed a ton in the recent game against the West Indies.

With World Test Champions South Africa looming on the horizon before the end of the year, Rahul’s form will be crucial if India hope to continue their current excellent run.

2. Ben Duckett (England)

• 602 runs
• 10 innings
• 60.20 average

Few players embody England’s ‘Bazball’ philosophy quite like Ben Duckett. His aggressive left-handed stroke-play has redefined how the modern opener can dismantle opposition attacks.

In 2025, Duckett has married positivity with consistency, delivering 602 runs in just 10 innings at a remarkable average of over 60.

A highlight of his year came at Leeds against India, where his audacious 149 of just 17 0 balls electrified the crowd and put England onto the front foot as they chased down an imposing 364 runs to win.

What has been striking is Duckett’s ability to score quickly without reckless abandon, ensuring England maintains momentum without risking collapse. Duckett’s resurgence has cemented his place as the perfect foil to Zak Crawley at the top of the order.

Also read – Revealed: The 10 richest T20 leagues in the world with astonishing IPL valuation

3. Yashasvi Jaiswal (India)

• 479 runs
• 13 innings
• 36.84 average

Still in the early stages of his Test career, Yashasvi Jaiswal has already made himself a fixture in India’s batting line-up. His 2025 numbers, 479 runs at an average of 36.84, highlight a year of promise, even if he has lacked the big scores that defined his debut season.

Jaiswal’s attacking instincts have sometimes left him vulnerable against the moving ball, but when he has batted deep into innings, he has produced knocks of substance.

He scored two centuries in the series against England showing maturity and a growing willingness to adapt his natural aggression to conditions.

As much as the fifth Test at the Oval will be remembered for the bowling exploits of Mohammed Siraj and the games’ tight finish, Jaiswal’s 118 in India’s second innings was key to ensuring India had a decent total to defend.

At just 23, Jaiswal looks poised to become a long-term partner at the top of India’s order, with Rahul providing the stability alongside him.

4. Usman Khawaja (Australia)

• 461 runs
• 13 innings
• 38.41 average

At 38, Usman Khawaja remains Australia’s rock at the top of the order. His tally of 461 runs this year underlines his enduring value, even if the centuries have been harder to come by compared with his prolific 2022–23 run.

Khawaja’s most significant contribution in 2025 came in Galle where he posted a massive 232 against Sri Lanka in helping to set up a huge win.

Aside from the big knock in Sri Lanka, Khawaja has failed to go past 50 in any other innings this year – although aside from the trip to Sri Lanka the bulk of his other Tests were the low scoring series against the West Indies and the final of the World Test Championship.

5. Zak Crawley (England)

• 414 runs
• 10 innings
• 41.40 average

Zak Crawley has long divided opinion, but 2025 has been a year of greater consistency for the tall right-hander.

His 414 runs at an average above 40 represent steady contributions rather than occasional flashes of brilliance. Crucially, he has continued to score at a healthy strike-rate, complementing Duckett in England’s fast-paced batting strategy.

His standout innings of 2025 came in the one-off Test against Zimbabwe at Trent Bridge where he punished the African-outfits inexperienced attack with a fluent 124 that combined classical cover drives with ferocious pulls.

That knock demonstrated both his talent and his growing maturity.

For England, Crawley’s reliability alongside Duckett is providing a platform from which their middle order can flourish.

In the series against India, while he didn’t manage a three-figure score, he nevertheless managed scores of 50 plus on three occasions and made starts in all but one innings.

Most Test runs by openers in 2025 – top 5 summary list

1. KL Rahul (India): 649 runs
2. Ben Duckett (England): 602 runs
3. Yashasvi Jaiswal (India): 479 runs
4. Usman Khawaja (Australia): 461 runs
5. Zak Crawley (England): 414 runs

Read next – Ranked: The best Australian grounds with Melbourne, Sydney and Perth vying for No.1

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Ranked: The 9 undisputed kings that mastered the art of ‘celebrappeals’

The appeal is one of cricket’s great quirks: a unique mixture of persuasion, theatre and instinct.

From the guttural cries of fast bowlers to the elaborate gesturing of spinners, appeals often tell us as much about a player’s character as they do about the legitimacy of the delivery.

Some are born of desperation, others of sheer confidence. And then there are the “celebra-appeals” – half-celebrations, half-appeals, where the bowler is so sure of his triumph that he cannot stop himself from starting the victory lap before the umpire has even raised a finger.

At its heart, the appeal is supposed to be a request to the umpire. But in cricketing culture, it has evolved into a psychological tool, a performance, and a signature.

Bowlers cultivate their appeals as much as their run-ups or celebrations, creating moments that live in the memory. Here are some of the most memorable practitioners of this peculiar art.

1. Glenn McGrath (Australia): arm-raised certainty

McGrath was as relentless in his appeals as in his line and length.

Rarely one for the histrionics of Shane Warne at the other end, McGrath had his own understated style: a sharp shout, eyes narrowing in expectation, followed by that raised finger of his own hand, mirroring the umpire’s.

Often, the appeal was as precise as his bowling, delivered with the quiet confidence of a man who already knew the answer. His appeals embodied inevitability, just as much as his immaculate channel outside off.

2. Shane Warne (Australia): theatrical maestro

If cricket is theatre, Warne was its greatest showman. His appeals ranged from the dramatic arms-outstretched imploring of an Oscar-winning actor to the sly, knowing grin of a magician revealing his trick.

Warne often crouched, eyes locked on the umpire, hands clasped as though pleading for divine intervention. Sometimes he was appealing to the crowd as much as the official.

And when he knew he had his man — especially with a flipper or ball of the century-style ripper, Warne’s appeal was almost indistinguishable from the celebration.

3. Dale Steyn (South Africa): primal roar

Steyn’s appeal was an extension of his persona: fast, furious, and fiery. After tearing through a batsman’s defence, he would unleash a guttural roar, arms punching the air in triumph while simultaneously staring down the umpire for confirmation.

It was both an appeal and an act of intimidation. Many batsmen later admitted that just surviving Steyn’s follow-through and the accompanying appeal could be as nerve-wracking as facing the ball itself.

4. Ravindra Jadeja (India): master of the ‘celebrappeal’

Few bowlers blur the line between celebration and appeal as consistently as India‘s Ravindra Jadeja. For the left-arm spinner, appealing is almost a formality; he is usually wheeling away in celebration even before the umpire has time to think.

His classic routine involves running down the pitch, arms out in triumph. Umpires have often seemed to confirm wickets with a raised finger simply to catch up with Jadeja’s certainty.

Also read – Ranked: The top 12 wicket-takers for India in Tests

5. Muttiah Muralitharan: childlike exuberance

Murali’s appeals carried the joy of a street cricketer convinced he had just bowled the ball of the century. His arms would shoot upwards in unison, his head tilting as he beamed at the umpire with an almost innocent eagerness.

It wasn’t menacing, nor was it intimidating. Instead, it was infectious, a reminder that cricket, at its core, was still a game to be enjoyed. His sheer enthusiasm often seemed to leave umpires with little choice but to raise the finger.

6. Harbhajan Singh: airborne appeal

Harbhajan’s appeals often seemed to defy gravity. After beating a batsman, he would leap into the air, arms shooting skyward, yelling his case with fervour. His exuberance sometimes made it hard for umpires to resist.

It wasn’t unusual to see Harbhajan appealing with as much intensity for a near-miss as for a plumb lbw, a reflection of his fiery competitiveness. At times exasperating at others exhilarating, his appeals always injected drama into the contest.

7. Stuart Broad (England): master of the ‘celebrappeal’

Few cricketers have been as polarising in their appealing habits as England‘s Stuart Broad. His signature was the “celebr-appeal,” where he would continue to charge down the wicket towards the keeper in apparent celebration, long before the umpire had made a decision.

The approach divided opinion: was it arrogance, gamesmanship, or just supreme confidence? Either way, Broad’s celebr-appeals became part of his legend, reinforcing his reputation as a fiery competitor who never doubted his own case.

8. Imran Tahir (South Africa): marathon man

Technically more about celebrations than appeals, South Africa‘s Tahir nevertheless deserves mention. The Proteas leg-spinner often began sprinting halfway across the field, arms pumping in sheer ecstasy, before the umpire’s verdict was even clear.

His passion sometimes blurred the appeal and the celebration into one continuous, joyous spectacle. While teammates occasionally shook their heads at the excess, fans adored the unfiltered exuberance.

9. Shoaib Akhtar (Pakistan): ‘celebrappeal’ sprinter

For Shoaib Akhtar, the Rawalpindi Express, appealing was often indistinguishable from celebrating.

He would bowl a thunderbolt, let out a primal scream, sprint down the pitch with arms spread wide, and only then look back at the umpire as if to remind them they were part of the performance.

His sheer speed and charisma made the celebr-appeal his trademark. Even on occasions when the umpire’s finger stayed down, Akhtar’s conviction often made batters doubt themselves.

Read next: Revealed – 6 of the biggest exclusions from England’s Ashes squad

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Ranked: The best Australian grounds with Melbourne, Sydney and Perth vying for No.1

Australia is a land of cricketing giants, both in terms of players and the stadiums that host them.

Few countries in the world can match Australia’s combination of size, atmosphere and history when it comes to cricket venues.

From the mighty MCG to the Gabba’s fortress-like aura, these stadiums have provided the backdrop to some of the game’s greatest moments.

Here’s a look at the seven largest cricket grounds in Australia, each with its own story, tradition and character.

1. Melbourne Cricket Ground (MCG), Melbourne

• Capacity: 90,000
• Established: 1853
• First game hosted: Australia vs England, March 1877

The MCG is the undisputed king of Australian cricket venues and a symbol of the sport’s enduring place in the nation’s culture. Known simply as “the G,” it is the largest stadium in the Southern Hemisphere.

The very first Test match in cricket history took place here in 1877 between Australia and England, an encounter that set the template for a rivalry still alive nearly 150 years later.

Today, the MCG is most famous for its Boxing Day Test, where crowds of 70,000-plus have become the norm.

One of its most iconic moments came in 2006, when Shane Warne bowled Andrew Strauss to claim his 700th Test wicket, sending the packed crowd into raptures.

The MCG has also been the stage for two World Cup finals, in 1992 and 2015, and continues to be the beating heart of cricket in Australia.

2. Stadium Australia (Accor Stadium), Sydney

• Capacity: 78,000
• Established: 1999
• First game hosted: Australia vs India, February 2012

Built for the 2000 Olympic Games, Stadium Australia was designed as a multi-purpose venue rather than a specialist cricket ground.

Its cavernous design makes it an imposing setting, even though cricket has played a smaller role here compared with rugby and football.

Despite its relatively limited use (it has hosted just four T20I games), the stadium has hosted some significant cricketing moments.

The venue’s large dimensions also made it suitable for Twenty20 internationals, and it has occasionally been used as an overflow for Sydney’s more traditional cricket hub, the SCG.

While not as steeped in cricketing history as other Australian venues, Stadium Australia represents the modern, flexible side of the sport. The stadium hasn’t hosted a cricket game since 2014.

3. Perth Stadium (Optus Stadium), Perth

• Capacity: 61,000
• Established: 2017
• First game hosted: Australia vs England, January 2018

Perth’s Optus Stadium is the newest major cricket venue in Australia and has rapidly become one of the most eye-catching.

Replacing the venerable WACA as Western Australia’s international ground, it combines modern facilities with the tradition of fast, bouncy pitches that Perth is known for.

One of its most memorable moments came during the 2019–20 Test series against New Zealand, when Marnus Labuschagne announced himself with a brilliant century in the first-ever day-night Test played at the venue.

The stadium has also proved a formidable place for visiting teams, with its extra pace and bounce reminiscent of the WACA’s heyday. The design allows for spectacular light shows and an electric atmosphere at night games, making it a firm favourite for Big Bash League matches.

Also read – Ranked: The top 12 wicket-takers for India in Tests

4. Adelaide Oval, Adelaide

• Capacity: 50,000
• Established: 1873
• First game hosted: Australia vs England, December 1884

Few cricket grounds in the world combine beauty and history as seamlessly as the Adelaide Oval. The venue is famed for its old scoreboard, cathedral backdrop and grassy mounds, all of which survived its major redevelopment in the 2010s that boosted capacity and modernised facilities.

Adelaide has hosted many classic Ashes encounters, including Mike Gatting’s infamous “ball of the century” dismissal by Shane Warne in 1993.

More recently, it became the home of the day-night Test, with its pink-ball contests drawing huge crowds under the lights. The Oval’s mix of charm and cutting-edge design makes it one of the most beloved stadiums in world cricket.

5. Docklands Stadium (Marvel Stadium), Melbourne

• Capacity: 48,000
• Established: 2000
• First game hosted: Australia vs South Africa, August 2000

Unlike most cricket stadiums, Docklands (now Marvel Stadium) boasts a fully retractable roof, making it unique among major international grounds. Though primarily designed for AFL, it has been used for day-night ODIs and T20Is, particularly in the early 2000s.

The indoor setting created unusual conditions for cricket, with the roof occasionally closed to shield against rain. That made for an odd spectacle at times, but it also allowed uninterrupted play in Melbourne’s famously unpredictable weather.

While it is not a frontline international cricket venue, Docklands remains an important alternative when scheduling requires a second Melbourne ground.

6. Sydney Cricket Ground (SCG), Sydney

• Capacity: 44,000
• Established: 1848
• First game hosted: Australia vs England, February 1882

The SCG is one of cricket’s most historic venues, with a lineage stretching back to the 19th century. It has staged over 100 Tests and remains the traditional home of the New Year’s Test, where fans arrive in fancy dress to ring in the cricketing year.

The ground has seen countless iconic moments, from Don Bradman’s double centuries to Steve Waugh’s famous last ball century against England in 2003.

It also has a unique character, with the Members’ Pavilion and heritage-listed stands blending with modern seating. For many cricketers, scoring a century or taking five wickets at the SCG remains a career highlight.

7. The Gabba, Brisbane

• Capacity: 37,000
• Established: 1895
• First game hosted: Australia vs South Africa, November 1931

The Gabba is Queensland cricket’s fortress and has long been the venue for the first Test of the Australian summer. Its reputation stems from its lively pitches, which traditionally offer bounce and pace, making it a favourite of fast bowlers.

Perhaps the most famous Gabba moment of recent years came in January 2021, when an injury-hit India stunned Australia to win the Test and the series, ending Australia’s 32-year unbeaten streak at the ground.

The Gabba’s reputation as an intimidating venue was dented, but its status as one of the most atmospheric and testing places to play cricket remains intact.

Read next: Revealed – 6 of the biggest exclusions from England’s Ashes squad

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Revealed: The 10 richest T20 leagues in the world with astonishing IPL valuation

Which are the richest T20 cricket leagues on the planet?

It’s a question well worth pondering as cricket boards and local and international players jostle for more spend amid increasing competition.

The domestic T20 circuit around the globe has seen a few ‘fly by night’ leagues come and go, but there are several more that have become cricketing and financial mainstays on the global calendar.

1. Indian Premier League

• Started: 2008
• Value: $10.9 billion

This is the Board of Control for Cricket in India’s brainchild – and longstanding pride and joy. They have former IPL boss Lalit Modi to thank for the bulk of its success. He put in the hard graft at the start before becoming unpopular down the line.

No other league has come even close to competing with the IPL on a financial front – and it’s highly likely this tournament will ever be trumped. It is the benchmark and flagbearer – and long may it continue.

2. International League T20

• Started: 2023
• Value: $15 million

One of the newest kids on the block, the ILT20 quickly rose to second position among the richest T20 leagues in the world. It is now, however, certainly under threat from the success of the SA20.

The next time this list is updated, you’ll probably see South Africa’s showpiece take over from the United Arab Emirates’ premier event. The ILT20 has already moved its window in order to not directly compete with the SA20.

3. SA20

• Started: 2023
• Value: $12.5 million

Cricket South Africa were crying out for a boost in the wake of the Global League T20’s failure to launch and the spluttering attempts of the Mzansi Super League.

Up stepped former Proteas captain Graeme Smith, who has become SA20 commissioner and turned to the tournament into a massive success. How? Why through his excellent relationships with Indian personalities, of course. All six of the SA20 teams are owned by IPL franchises.

4. Big Bash League

• Started: 2011
• Value: $10 million

Cricket Australia were among the early adopters of T20 cricket at domestic level – and swiftly turned the Big Bash into a profitable machine. But its popularity as waned over recent years.

Rule changes, experimental playing conditions and other factors have contribute to its drop in the ranks. And as much as its scheduling across the holiday period in Australia can be empowering, it can also be limiting in terms of crowd numbers.

Also read – Ranked: The top 12 wicket-takers for India in Tests

5. The Hundred

• Started: 2021
• Value: $9 million

Think what you will about The Hundred’s format and effective canabalisation of the T20 Blast, the England and Wales Cricket Board will be happy with its growth.

Indian Premier League investment is coming its way soon, so look out for, say, MI London over London Spirit. The ECB took a big risk and, despite initial protestations, the format and tournament as a whole is growing on the public.

6. Major League Cricket

• Started: 2023
• Value: $6.9 million

We’ll have to see where this one goes, as MLC’s termination of their relationship with American Cricket Enterprises could have a negative effect. ACE had been hired to run the league for USA Cricket.

Speaking of USA Cricket, they’re consistently under the watchful eye of the International Cricket Council – and are currently suspended. Such a pity, as the United States’ Minor League Cricket Championship has plenty of promise and needs more funding.

7. Pakistan Super League

• Started: 2016
• Value: $5.7 million

Once right up there among the top five richest T20 leagues in the world, the PSL has lost ground to a couple of others in the recent past. The tournament has a strong grassroots pipeline, which contributes to the upliftment of burgeoning local stars.

Much like the Bangladesh Premier League, which we’ll look at in a bit, the PSL is less reliant on overseas stars as some of the other bigger leagues. It has its own little homegrown eco-system running along quite nicely.

8. Bangladesh Premier League

• Started: 2012
• Value: $4.8 million

The BPL started, more or less, the same time as the Big Bash League, but certainly hasn’t enjoyed the same success. For its location and need to co-exist with more popular leagues in a jampacked calendar, the BPL doesn’t really attract big stars.

So, like the PSL, it relies on big local names such as Shakib Al Hasan to step up and avail themselves. But that doesn’t always happen – and that’s where third- or even fourth-tier players from overseas start to make up the numbers.

9. Caribbean Premier League

• Started: 2013
• Value: $4.6 million

The West Indies’ Cricket Board’s premier T20 tournament was higher on this list of richest T20 leagues once upon a time. But with the advent of Major League Cricket in the USA and even the Global T20 Canada, it has lost its strong commercial attraction of the past.

It’s very much a convenient afterthought for West Indian stars such as Sunil Narine, Andre Russell and others, who make their mega millions in the IPL as a priority before obliging the CPL with their participation.

10. Lanka Premier League

• Started: 2020
• Value: $3 million

Sri Lanka’s top T20 tournament as suffered time and time again. The tournament chops and changes franchises for various reasons each season – and just doesn’t collect enough cricketing and financial consistency.

New Zealand’s Super Smash, the T20 Blast in the United Kingdom and a few other leagues exist, too, but are not financially strong enough to make this list of the richest T20 leagues in the world.

Richest T20 leagues – top 10 summary list

1. Indian Premier League: $10.9 billion
2. International T20 League: $15 million
3. SA20 South Africa: $12.5 million
4. Big Bash League: $10 million
5. The Hundred: $9 million
6. Major League Cricket: $6.9 million
7. Pakistan Super League: $5.7 million
8. Bangladesh Premier League: $4.8 million
9. Caribbean Premier League: $4.6 million
10. Lanka Premier League: $3 million

Read next: Revealed – 6 of the biggest exclusions from England’s Ashes squad

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Ranked: The top 12 wicket-takers for India in Test cricket

India has produced some of the finest bowlers in the history of Test cricket, producing a host of spin wizards, fiery pacemen, and some of the best all-rounders the game has seen.

From their arrival onto the Test scene in the 1930s to the modern day, Indian bowlers have left indelible marks on the game, achieving feats that have helped the national team win countless matches both at home and abroad.

While batsmen often steal headlines, it is the bowlers who have frequently been the architects of India’s victories. Let’s take a moment to explore the top 12 wicket-takers in Indian Test history:

1. Anil Kumble

• 619 wickets in 132 Tests

Anil Kumble is India’s greatest wicket-taker and a true legend of the game, the fourth highest wicket-taker in the history of the game (behind only Muttiah Muralitharan, Shane Warne and James Anderson).

Playing from 1990 to 2008, he amassed an incredible 619 wickets at an average of 29.65, with a strike rate of 65.99. Kumble’s career is defined by his relentless accuracy, subtle variations, and his unflappable temperament.

The pinnacle of his bowling came in 1999 against Pakistan at Delhi, where he took all ten wickets in an innings (10/74), joining Jim Laker as the only other player in Test history to have achieved the feat.

Kumble was not a prodigious turner of the ball like many spinners of his era, but his use of pace, bounce, and trajectory made him a constant threat, particularly on Indian wickets.

2. Ravichandran Ashwin

• 537 wickets in 106 Tests

Ravichandran Ashwin has been India’s modern spin maestro, dominating from 2011 to 2024. With 537 wickets at an average of 24.00 and a strike rate of 50.73, Ashwin combined guile, intelligence, and the ability to adapt to different conditions.

His best innings figures of 7/59 highlight his potency, as he has consistently delivered in high-pressure situations. Ashwin was also a capable lower-order batsman, making him a genuine all-round asset.

Beyond numbers, his tactical acumen and innovation, including carrom balls and subtle variations, made him one of the most complete spinners in the modern era. He retired from Test cricket at the start of 2025.

3. Kapil Dev

• 434 wickets in 131 Tests

Kapil Dev was a pioneer for Indian fast bowling, breaking the stereotype that India could not produce world-class pacers. Playing from 1978 to 1994, Kapil took 434 wickets at 29.64, with a strike rate of 63.91.

His best figures of 9/83 against the West Indies in 1983 demonstrated his match-winning ability. Kapil’s career is also remembered for his all-round contributions, including leading India to the 1983 World Cup triumph.

His combination of pace, bounce, and stamina, especially on helpful wickets abroad, made him one of the most dangerous bowlers of his generation.

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4. Harbhajan Singh

• 417 wickets in 103 Tests

Harbhajan Singh was India’s premier off-spinner. Playing from 1998 to 2015, he took 417 wickets at an average of 32.46. Known for his aggressive style and sharp turn, Harbhajan’s strike rate of 68.53 and best innings figures of 8/84 underline his match-winning potential.

He famously dominated Australia in the early 2000s, particularly in 2001 at Eden Gardens where he took 13 wickets in a Test, helping India to one of the most memorable victories in cricket history.

Harbhajan’s ability to combine spin, bounce, and clever variations ensured he was a constant threat on subcontinental wickets.

5. Ravindra Jadeja

• 330 wickets in 86 Tests

Ravindra Jadeja, still active and playing in the current series against the West Indies, has transformed into one of India’s most reliable all-rounders. Since his debut in 2012, he has taken 330 wickets at an average of 25.21, with a best innings return of 7/42.

Jadeja’s left-arm spin is economical (2.58 runs per over) and consistent, often controlling the game in long spells. Apart from his wicket-taking ability, his agility in the field and handy batting makes him a crucial part of India’s Test setup.

With time, Jadeja is likely to climb further up the list of all-time Indian wicket-takers, although at 36 years old, his days until retirement are probably numbered.

6. Ishant Sharma

• 311 wickets in 105 Tests

Ishant Sharma’s 311 wickets at 32.4 and a strike rate of 61.60 reflect a long career that spanned almost 15 years from 2007 to 2021 in which he spearheaded India’s pace attack.

Tall and able to extract bounce on all surfaces, Ishant was a key figure in India’s overseas success, particularly in Australia and England. His best bowling figures of 7/74 highlight his potential to single-handedly win matches.

His ability to bowl long, attacking spells made him one of India’s most durable fast bowlers.

7. Zaheer Khan

• 311 wickets in 92 Tests

Zaheer Khan, who played between 2000 and 2014, was India’s strike bowler during their rise to the summit of world cricket. Taking 311 wickets at 32.94 with a strike rate of 60.40, Zaheer’s left-arm swing and seam movement troubled batsmen in all conditions.

His best innings figures of 7/87 underscore his ability to produce breakthroughs, particularly in high-pressure situations abroad. Zaheer’s experience and tactical nous helped India win key overseas series, notably in England and Pakistan.

8. Bishan Bedi

• 266 wickets in 67 Tests

Bishan Singh Bedi was the epitome of classical left-arm spin, capturing 266 wickets at 28.71 across a career from 1966 to 1979. With an economy of just 2.14, Bedi’s flight, control, and guile made him one of the finest spinners of his era.

His best innings figures of 7/98 demonstrate his ability to dismantle sides. Bedi’s skill in tying down batsmen and creating pressure enabled India’s fast bowlers to attack from the other end, making him an invaluable asset in his time.

9. BS Chandrasekhar

• 242 wickets in 58 Tests

BS Chandrasekhar, part of India’s famous spin quartet, played from 1964 to 1979. Despite a physical handicap in his bowling arm, he captured 242 wickets at 29.74 with a strike rate of 65.96.

Known for his leg-spin and unique bowling action, Chandrasekhar could produce extraordinary turn and bounce, delivering match-winning spells like his 8/79 against England. His unpredictability made him one of the most dangerous bowlers of his generation.

10. Javagal Srinath

• 236 wickets in 67 Tests

Javagal Srinath was India’s premier pacer in the 1990s, taking 236 wickets at 30.49. With a best innings performance of 8/86, Srinath’s pace and ability to generate bounce made him a consistent threat, especially on overseas wickets.

Srinath played a pivotal role in India’s emergence as a competitive side abroad.

11. Mohammed Shami

• 229 wickets in 64 Tests

Mohammed Shami, active from 2013 to 2023, captured 229 wickets at 27.71 with a strike rate of 50.28. Known for his seam movement and reverse swing, Shami was a potent strike bowler, particularly in the second innings.

His best figures in an innings were 6/56. Shami’s consistency and ability to bowl in the most testing conditions cemented his reputation as one of India’s leading Test bowlers of all time.

12. Jasprit Bumrah

• 222 wickets in 49 Tests

Jasprit Bumrah, India’s new-ball spearhead since 2018, has taken 222 wickets at an astonishing average of 19.74 with a strike rate of 42.48. With best figures of 6/27, Bumrah combines raw pace, deadly accuracy, and unorthodox action to trouble batsmen worldwide.

A genuine threat in all forms of the game, Bumrah ascended quickly to the top ranking in the ICC Test bowlers list.

His economy of 2.78 reflects his control, while his ability to swing the ball both ways, and deliver toe-crushing yorkers even in Tests, has made him a generational talent.

Still relatively early in his career, at 31 years old, Bumrah is poised to climb even higher in India’s all-time wicket-takers list.

Most Test wickets for India –  top 12 summary list

1. Anil Kumble: 619 wickets in 132 Tests
2. Ravichandran Ashwin: 537 wickets in 106 Tests
3. Kapil Dev: 434 wickets in 131 Tests
5. Ravindra Jadeja: 330 wickets in 86 Tests
6. Ishant Sharma: 311 wickets in 105 Tests
7. Zaheer Khan: 311 wickets in 92 Tests
8. Bishan Bedi: 266 wickets in 67 Tests
9. BS Chandrasekhar: 242 wickets in 58 Tests
10. Javagal Srinath: 236 wickets in 67 Tests
11. Mohammed Shami: 229 wickets in 64 Tests
12. Jasprit Bumrah: 222 wickets in 49 Tests

READ NEXT: The perfect Test cricketer based on best drive, best defence and 7 other important features

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6 of the biggest exclusions from England’s Ashes squad

The naming of an Ashes squad always provokes fierce debate, and England’s latest announcement was no exception.

With only 16 seats on the plane to Australia for the series that starts 25 November and runs until mid-January, several talented cricketers were left at home. Some missed out by virtue of poor timing, others through the squeeze of competition in key roles.

England has sought a blend of battle-hardened Test regulars and emerging stars, but the final cut means several capable performers will be watching from afar. Here are seven players who can justifiably consider themselves unlucky to have missed out on the Ashes.

1. Dan Lawrence

The Essex middle-order batter has been a perennial nearly-man in recent years. He has been in and around the team since making his debut against Sri Lanka in 2021.

Lawrence boasts a first-class average nudging 30 and has shown a capacity to score briskly under pressure, yet England’s preference for the solidity of Ollie Pope and Harry Brook’s explosive batting left no room.

Lawrence’s versatility, he can bat anywhere from three to six, and bowls useful off-spin, might have been an asset in Australian conditions.

2. Sam Cook

Essex’s metronomic seamer has topped the county averages for several seasons, renowned for relentless accuracy and movement off the seam.

Critics argue that Cook lacks the raw pace to trouble Australia on hard pitches, but his control and economy could have provided valuable support. At 27, he is hardly a prospect for the distant future, and missing this tour feels a cruel blow given his consistency.

He made his Test debut earlier in the season in the one-off game against Zimbabwe where he managed just a single wicket.

3. Rehan Ahmed

England’s youngest-ever men’s Test cricket debutant has already shown the potential to become a long-term spin option. The selectors opted instead for another youngster in the form of Shoaib Bashir

and the bits-and-pieces fare offered by the likes of Will Jacks, Jacob Bethell and even Joe Root, but Ahmed’s leg-spin might have posed different challenges on dry Australian surfaces.

His omission is less a judgment on talent than a recognition that England wants him to mature further. Still, Ahmed will feel disappointed not to build on his promising start at international level.

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4. Ben Foakes

Perhaps the most debated omission, Foakes is widely regarded as the best pure wicketkeeper in the world.

His exclusion reflects England’s commitment to Jamie Smith, whose batting form has been excellent in recent times (he is currently England’s fourth highest ranked batter).

Still, Foakes’ safe hands and cool temperament could have been invaluable in Australia, where dropped catches can decide series.

His absence underlines the brutal reality that sometimes balance of the side outweighs individual excellence – where Smith is undoubtedly able to hold his place in the team as a batter, Foakes is first and foremost a keeper.

5. Liam Dawson

The Hampshire all-rounder could feel particularly unfortunate to miss out after forcing his way back into England’s Test squad during the recent India series.

Dawson offers the selectors a reliable left-arm spin option, useful lower-order runs, and valuable experience in pressure situations.

With Will Jacks perhaps considered to be a younger player in a similar mold, Dawson’s utility perhaps worked against him, yet his consistency in county cricket – and his ability to perform with both bat and ball – made a strong case for selection.

In a long Ashes tour where all-round depth and experience are often decisive, Dawson may well have merited a place.

6. Keaton Jennings

The South African born, Lancashire opener is a specialist against spin, but he has also churned out runs at county level against pace. He has 17 Test caps to his name but hasn’t played red ball cricket for England 2019.

With Zak Crawley and Ben Duckett entrusted at the top, Jennings has again found himself overlooked.

His calm temperament and willingness to grind could have proved useful against Australia’s formidable pace trio of Pat Cummins, Josh Hazlewood and Mitchell Starc.

Jennings may not have the flair of others, but few have displayed his resilience in difficult overseas conditions.

READ NEXT: The perfect Test cricketer based on best drive, best defence and 7 other important features

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