Top 5 Bowlers with Most Wickets for India vs England in Tests

Wickets have often defined the outcome of classic encounters in the India vs England Test rivalry—a battle rich in history, pride, and fierce competition. While batters may grab headlines, it’s the bowlers who’ve consistently turned the tide, whether on spinning tracks in Chennai or seaming pitches at Lord’s. Their relentless pursuit of wickets has created unforgettable moments in cricket history.

This article highlights the Top 5 Bowlers with Most Wickets for India vs England in Tests, celebrating the legends who rose to the occasion and left a lasting mark on this storied rivalry.

Let`s take a look at the Top 5 Indian Wicket-Takers vs England in Tests:

5. Bishan Singh Bedi (India) – 85 Wickets

India’s most graceful left-arm spinner, Bishan Singh Bedi, mastered the art of flight, guile, and control. With an exceptional economy of 2.12, he built relentless pressure that allowed his fellow spinners to strike. His standout performance of 6/71 in 1974 showcased his ability to dismantle England’s middle order with precision. Bedi’s brilliance secures his place among the Top 5 Bowlers with Most Wickets for India vs England in Tests.

Stats Table:

Span	Matches	Innings	Balls	Overs	Maidens	Runs	Wickets	BBI	Avg	Econ	SR
1967–1979	22	36	7173	1195.3	373	2539	85	6/71	29.87	2.12	84.38

4. Anil Kumble (India) – 92 Wickets

Anil Kumble, India’s highest Test wicket-taker, thrived on accuracy, persistence, and subtle variations rather than big turn. His consistent pressure troubled England across formats and conditions. A highlight came late in his career with a match-defining 7/115 at The Oval in 2007, playing a key role in India’s rare series win in England. The ever-reliable match-winner rightly features among the Top 5 Bowlers with Most Wickets for India vs England in Tests.

Stats Table:

Span	Matches	Innings	Balls	Overs	Maidens	Runs	Wickets	BBI	Avg	Econ	SR
1990–2007	19	36	6434	1072.2	258	2815	92	7/115	30.59	2.62	69.93

3. Bhagwath Chandrasekhar (India) – 95 Wickets

The most unorthodox member of India’s legendary spin quartet, Bhagwath Chandrasekhar defied physical odds with a unique, whippy action and lethal wrist spin. His unpredictable pace and sharp topspinners frequently unsettled English batters. His career-best 8/79 at The Oval in 1971 was a match-winning spell that helped India script a historic overseas victory. Chandrasekhar’s brilliance earns him a deserved spot among the Top 5 Bowlers with Most Wickets for India vs England in Tests.

Stats Table:

Span	Matches	Innings	Balls	Overs	Maidens	Runs	Wickets	BBI	Avg	Econ	SR
1964–1979	23	38	6199	1033.1	249	2591	95	8/79	27.27	2.50	65.25

2. Ravichandran Ashwin (India) – 114 Wickets

Ravichandran Ashwin, India’s modern-day spin maestro, has been a constant thorn in England’s side, especially on home turf. With his masterful variations in flight, dip, and spin, he has tormented England in spin-friendly venues like Chennai and Ahmedabad. Known for his dominance over left-handers and tactical use of the crease, Ashwin is India’s leading wicket-taker against England in Tests. His memorable 6/55 in Chennai in 2021 exemplifies his match-winning prowess, securing his place among the Top 5 Bowlers with Most Wickets for India vs England in Tests.

Stats Table:

Span	Matches	Innings	Balls	Overs	Maidens	Runs	Wickets	BBI	Avg	Econ	SR
2012–2024	24	45	6383	1063.5	171	3161	114	6/55	27.72	2.97	55.99

1. James Anderson (England) – 149 Wickets

A swing and seam specialist, James Anderson has tormented Indian batters for nearly two decades. Since his debut against India in 2006, he has showcased remarkable adaptability—from mastering reverse swing in the subcontinent to exploiting movement in English conditions. With pinpoint accuracy and unmatched longevity, Anderson has repeatedly troubled Indian greats like Tendulkar, Kohli, and Rahane. His brilliant 5/20 in Chennai remains a masterclass in pace bowling on spin-friendly pitches. His dominance firmly places him among the Top 5 Bowlers with Most Wickets for India vs England in Tests.

Stats Table:

Span	Matches	Innings	Balls	Overs	Maidens	Runs	Wickets	BBI	Avg	Econ	SR
2006–2024	39	73	8318	1386.2	375	3796	149	5/20	25.47	2.73	55.82

Conclusion

The India-England Test rivalry has been shaped by bowlers who delivered in crucial moments. From Bedi’s artistry to Ashwin’s modern mastery, each has left a unique mark. The Top 5 Bowlers with Most Wickets for India vs England in Tests highlight not just individual brilliance, but the evolution of India’s bowling legacy in this historic contest.

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