Top five fastest Indian bowlers to claim 200 Test wickets

India has a rich history of producing numerous world-class spinners. From the era of Bishan Singh Bedi to the contemporary prowess of Ravichandran Ashwin, the journey of Indian cricket has been marked by exceptional spin bowlers. The arid conditions of Indian pitches have significantly contributed to the development of these legendary spinners.

While they have performed brilliantly across the globe, Indian bowlers have been particularly lethal in the home conditions. Scripting several memorable wins for the team, the Indian bowlers have also achieved some remarkable individual records along the way.

In this article, let’s take a look at the top five fastest Indian bowlers to claim 200 wickets in Test cricket.

5. Anil Kumble – 47 matches

Anil Kumble, affectionately known as "Jumbo," is recognized as the most accomplished Indian Test bowler, having taken 619 wickets. He made his debut in 1990 and served as the spearhead of the Indian spin bowling unit throughout the 1990s and 2000s.

Kumble achieved the milestone of 200 test wickets during his 47th test match, which took place against Zimbabwe in Harare in 1998. Kumble concluded his Test career in 2008 with a match against Australia held in Delhi.

4. Harbhajan Singh – 46 matches

Harbhajan Singh finished his career with a total of 417 wickets, maintaining an impressive average of 32.46, along with 25 instances of taking five wickets in an innings. The Indian off-spinner was particularly known for his effective "Doosra" delivery, which turned away from right-handed batters.

He picked his 200th test wicket in the 46th test of his career, which was against Zimbabwe at Bulawayo in 2005. Singh played a pivotal role in India's bowling lineup throughout the 2000s, partnering effectively with Anil Kumble to create a formidable duo.

3. Jasprit Bumrah – 44 matches

Fast bowler Jasprit Bumrah has become the 12th Indian bowler to reach the milestone of 200 wickets in Test cricket. He accomplished this achievement during the fourth Test of India's tour of Australia in the 2024-25 season, marking the completion of his 200 Test wickets in his 44th match.

2. Ravindra Jadeja – 44 matches

Ravindra Jadeja is the second-fastest Indian bowler to take 200 Test wickets. He reached this landmark during his 44th Test match, which took place against South Africa in 2019 at the Dr. YSR ACA-VDCA Cricket Stadium in Vishakhapatnam.

Jadeja, who made his Test debut in 2012 against England, is regarded as one of the greatest Test all-rounders in history. Jadeja's precision in bowling presents a formidable challenge for even the most skilled batters in the world.

1. Ravichandran Ashwin – 37 matches

Ravichandran Ashwin holds the record as the quickest Indian bowler to achieve 200 wickets in Test cricket. He reached this milestone during the 37th Test match of his career, which took place against New Zealand in Kanpur in 2016.

Recognized as India's premier off-spinner, Ashwin is celebrated for his inventive bowling techniques and sharp mind. Ashwin ended his career in 2024 with 537 wickets in 106 tests, which he took at an average of 24. He retired as India's second most successful Test bowler, following Anil Kumble.

Cover Credits - BCCI Official