Test Cricket Records: Most Wickets Taken by Captains in History

In Test cricket, the captain plays a big role — setting the field, making bowling changes, and leading the team both on and off the field. But what happens when the captain is also a bowler? That adds extra pressure. Despite that, some of the greatest bowlers in cricket history have managed to take a large number of wickets while being the captain of their team.

Let’s take a look at the top players who hold the record for most wickets as captain in Test cricket history.

Imran Khan (Pakistan) – 187 Wickets

Imran Khan tops the list with 187 wickets in just 48 Tests as captain. Leading Pakistan in the 1980s and early 90s, Imran was a fearsome fast bowler who always led from the front. His bowling average as captain was an impressive 20.26, and he took 12 five-wicket hauls and 4 ten-wicket matches during that time.

Imran was not just a great bowler—he was also one of the most respected captains in world cricket. Under his leadership, Pakistan became one of the best teams in the world, and he later went on to become the country’s Prime Minister.

Pat Cummins (Australia) – 140+ Wickets (and counting)

Pat Cummins is currently the captain of Australia and already has over 140 wickets as captain. He took over the role in 2021 and has done a fantastic job balancing leadership with his fast bowling duties.

Cummins has led Australia to victories in the Ashes, the World Test Championship, and more. His bowling average as captain is around 22.8, with several five-wicket hauls, and he continues to be one of the best bowlers in the world.

Richie Benaud (Australia) – 138 Wickets

Richie Benaud, a legendary leg-spinner and commentator, took 138 wickets in 28 Tests as Australia’s captain in the 1950s and 60s. His control and sharp cricketing brain helped Australia win many tough games.

Benaud had a great bowling average of 25.78 as captain and was known for his calm leadership and smart field placements.

Other Notable Captains with 100+ Test Wickets

Garry Sobers (West Indies) – 117 Wickets

One of the greatest all-rounders in cricket history, Garry Sobers could bat and bowl equally well. He took 117 wickets as captain of the West Indies and had a long and successful career.

Daniel Vettori (New Zealand) – 116 Wickets

A clever left-arm spinner, Vettori captained New Zealand in 32 Tests and picked up 116 wickets. He was known for his consistency and cricketing intelligence.

Kapil Dev (India) – 111 Wickets

India’s legendary all-rounder Kapil Dev took 111 wickets as captain. He led India in the late 1980s and is best known for winning the 1983 World Cup.

Wasim Akram (Pakistan) – 107 Wickets

Wasim Akram was a master of swing bowling. As captain, he took 107 wickets in Tests with a strong average of 23.35. His pace and reverse swing made him deadly on any surface.

Bishan Singh Bedi (India) – 106 Wickets

Bedi was a classic left-arm spinner. He captained India in the 1970s and took over 100 wickets while leading the side.

Shaun Pollock (South Africa) – 103 Wickets

Pollock was a fast-medium bowler and captain of South Africa in the early 2000s. He had a great average of 21.36 while taking 103 wickets as captain.

Why This Matters

Being a captain is hard. Being a top-class bowler while captaining is even harder. These players didn’t just manage the team — they were also key match-winners with the ball. Their records show great skill, focus, and mental strength.

Final Thoughts

Leading a team in Test cricket is a huge responsibility. These bowlers showed that it’s possible to manage captaincy and still perform at the highest level. From Imran Khan’s dominance to Pat Cummins’ ongoing success, these men left a lasting mark on the game.

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