In 2024, several bowlers made a lasting impact on Test cricket, showcasing exceptional skill and consistency as they climbed the wickets chart.
Fast bowlers dominated in countries like England, Australia, South Africa, and New Zealand, while spinners flourished in conditions in Bangladesh, India, Pakistan, and Sri Lanka.
6. Ravindra Jadeja (India) – 48 Wickets
Ravindra Jadeja, India’s premier all-rounder, continued to be a key figure, especially in overseas conditions, in 2024. In just 12 Tests, he claimed 48 wickets at an average of 24.29. Jadeja achieved three five-wicket hauls and one ten-wicket match haul, with his best figures being 5/44 in an innings and 10/120 in a match during the Mumbai Test against New Zealand in October. Despite his stellar performance, India lost the match.
5. Prabath Jayasuriya (Sri Lanka) – 48 Wickets
Sri Lanka’s left-arm spinner Prabath Jayasuriya had an outstanding 2024, performing well in both home and away conditions, including England and South Africa. He finished the year with 48 wickets in just nine matches at an average of 32.20. Jayasuriya’s best performance was 6/42, and he took four five-wicket hauls throughout the year. A key figure in Sri Lanka’s push for a spot in the ICC World Test Championship final, Jayasuriya’s ability to extract turn and bounce on spin-friendly surfaces remains invaluable. He will play a pivotal role when Sri Lanka hosts Australia for a two-Test series in early 2025.
4. Matt Henry (New Zealand) – 48 Wickets
New Zealand pacer Matt Henry claimed 48 wickets in just nine Tests in 2024. Known for his swing and accuracy, Henry was instrumental in New Zealand’s 3-0 whitewash of India in their Test series. With an impressive average of 18.58 and best figures of 7/67, Henry has taken on the role of New Zealand’s lead pacer following the retirements of Trent Boult, Neil Wagner, and Tim Southee. His consistency, both at home and abroad, makes him an essential part of New Zealand’s bowling attack.
3. Shoaib Bashir (England) – 49 Wickets
Shoaib Bashir had an impressive debut year in Test cricket, making his mark during England’s tour of India. His tall frame and high release point helped him generate extra bounce, earning him a regular spot in Ben Stokes’ bowling lineup. In 2024, Bashir took 49 wickets in 15 Tests, averaging 40.16, with best figures of 5/41. His reliability and ability to perform under pressure have made him a crucial part of England’s bowling strategy, even playing as the lone spinner in England’s attacks against Sri Lanka at home and in New Zealand.
2. Gus Atkinson (England) – 52 Wickets
Gus Atkinson had a remarkable debut year in Test cricket in 2024. His fast, seam-friendly bowling earned him a place on the Lord’s honors boards with both a five-wicket and ten-wicket haul, plus a century to his name. Atkinson finished the year with 52 wickets in 11 Tests at an average of 22.15, including best figures of 7/45 in an innings and 12/106 in a match. His ability to take key wickets has been instrumental in England’s successes in 2024, both at home and in New Zealand.
1. Jasprit Bumrah (India) – 71 Wickets
Jasprit Bumrah dominated the wickets tally in 2024, finishing the year as the highest wicket-taker in Test cricket. With Shami injured and Siraj’s form inconsistent, Bumrah carried India’s pace attack, taking 71 wickets in 13 Tests at a phenomenal average of 14.92. His best figures were 6/45 in an innings. Bumrah’s performances across South Africa, India, and Australia further cemented his legacy as one of the greatest fast bowlers of all time.