Muttiah MuralitharanThe Sri Lankan cricket icon is regarded as one of the greatest bowlers in the history of the game. The legendary off-spinner has a remarkable record of 800 Test wickets that has stood the test of time since his retirement.
Muttiah Muralitharan: Sri Lankan bowling legend
Known for his unique bowling style and incredible control, Muralitharan has dominated world cricket throughout his career, leaving an indelible mark on the sport. In 133 Test matches, he scored 800 runs at an average of 22.72, a record unmatched till date. He also holds the record for most five-wicket hauls in Test cricket (67) along with 22 10-wicket hauls. Muralitharan was equally impressive in the One Day International (ODI) format, where he took 534 wickets in 350 matches, making him the highest wicket-taker in ODI history.
Why Muralitaran believes his record is unbreakable
In a recent interview Daily MailMuralitharan expressed doubt that any bowler could surpass his record of 800 Test wickets. According to the spin wizard, the shift in focus towards shorter formats of the game such as T20 and ODIs has limited the ability of modern bowlers to achieve such milestones. He stated that “It is very difficult (for someone to cross 800 Test wickets) because the emphasis has shifted to short-form cricket. And we played for 20 years. “The career is shorter now.”
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A major challenge for bowlers
According to Muralitharan, one of the biggest factors preventing modern bowlers from getting close to the record is inconsistency. He acknowledged the abundance of talent among the younger generation, but noted that it was becoming increasingly difficult to maintain a level of performance over the long term.
“Consistency is a problem. It’s not about how good they are, because they’re all talented. The only thing is, how can they be experienced? It’s hard nowadays. They’ve got a lot of tournaments and stuff on their minds.” Muralitharan concluded.
Closest contenders to Muralitharan’s 800th goal record
The nearest bowler to Muralitharan’s record of 800 Test wickets is from Australia Nathan Lyon and of India Ravichandran Ashwin. Lyon with 530 wickets and Ashwin with 516 wickets have both enjoyed illustrious careers. However, both are currently in their thirties – Lyon at 36 and Ashwin at 37. Considering their ages and the physical demands of Test cricket, Muralitharan’s record seems unlikely to be surpassed before he retires.
The third highest wicket taker in Test history is an English fast bowler James Andersonrecently retired with 704 doors. Anderson’s impressive career puts him behind Muralitharan and beyond Shane Warne (708), displays remarkable longevity and consistency as a fast bowler. Among active bowlers under 30 years of age South Africaof Kagiso Rabada He leads with 299 Test wickets. Rabada’s early career success highlights his potential, but surpassing Muralitharan’s record will require not just talent but also sustained performance and longevity in the sport.
