When England and India clash in Test cricket, it’s a showcase of some of the world’s greatest bowlers. From swing masters to spin wizards, both teams have produced legends who’ve written cricket history with their bowling performances. Let’s explore the top 10 wicket-takers in England vs India Test matches and see how the ongoing 2025 series is adding new chapters to this fascinating story.
Top 10 Most Wicket-Takers in England vs India Tests (Combined)
1. James Anderson (England) – 149 Wickets
The swing king leads the pack with 149 wickets against India in 39 Tests from 2006-2024. Anderson’s mastery of swing bowling has made him England’s greatest weapon against Indian batsmen. With best bowling figures of 5/20 and an average of 25.47, he’s taken 6 five-wicket hauls against India.
2. Ravichandran Ashwin (India) – 114 Wickets
India’s premier off-spinner takes second place with 114 wickets in 24 Tests from 2012-2024. Ashwin’s best figures of 6/55 and impressive average of 27.72 showcase his effectiveness against England. He’s claimed 8 five-wicket hauls and even a 10-wicket match haul, making him India’s most successful bowler against England.
3. Bhagwath Chandrasekhar (India) – 95 Wickets
The legendary leg-spinner claimed 95 wickets in 23 Tests from 1964-1979. His unorthodox action and unpredictable bounce troubled English batsmen throughout his career. With remarkable bowling figures of 8/79 and 8 five-wicket hauls, Chandrasekhar was instrumental in India’s early Test successes against England.
4. Anil Kumble (India) – 92 Wickets
India’s greatest match-winner took 92 wickets against England in 19 Tests from 1990-2007. Kumble’s flat trajectory and relentless accuracy earned him best figures of 7/115. His ability to extract bounce and turn on any surface made him a constant threat to English batsmen.
5. Bishan Singh Bedi (India) – 85 Wickets
The left-arm spinner’s artistry yielded 85 wickets in 22 Tests from 1967-1979. Bedi’s best bowling figures of 6/71 and exceptional economy rate of 2.12 made him a master of control. He was part of India’s famous spin quartet that dominated England in the 1970s.
6. Kapil Dev (India) – 85 Wickets
India’s first great fast bowler and 1983 World Cup-winning captain took 85 wickets against England in 27 Tests from 1979-1993. His best figures of 6/91 and ability to swing the ball both ways made him a pioneering force in Indian pace bowling.
7. Stuart Broad (England) – 74 Wickets
The tall fast bowler claimed 74 wickets in 24 Tests against India from 2008-2022. Broad’s best bowling performance of 6/25 and his partnership with Anderson formed one of cricket’s most successful bowling combinations. He’s taken 2 five-wicket hauls against India.
8. Ravindra Jadeja (India) – 73 Wickets
The left-arm spinner and brilliant all-rounder has taken 73 wickets in 23 Tests from 2012-2025. Currently active in the 2025 series, Jadeja’s best figures of 7/48 and one 10-wicket match haul showcase his match-winning abilities with the ball.
9. Jasprit Bumrah (India) – 72 Wickets
The modern pace sensation Jasprit Bumrah has already claimed 72 wickets in just 16 Tests against England from 2018-2025. With an outstanding average of 21.97 and best figures of 6/45, Bumrah has 5 five-wicket hauls against England, making him one of the most feared bowlers in current cricket.
10. Ishant Sharma (India) – 67 Wickets
The lanky pacer took 67 wickets in 23 Tests against England from 2008-2021. His best bowling figures of 7/74 came at Lord’s in 2014, helping India to a historic victory. Known for his bounce and accuracy, Ishant was a workhorse for India in overseas conditions.
2025 Series: Current Battle
The ongoing England vs India Test series in 2025 has been absolutely thrilling! England currently leads the five-match series 2-1 after a dramatic victory at Lord’s. Here’s what has happened so far:
Series Results:
- 1st Test (Leeds): England won by 5 wickets
- 2nd Test (Birmingham): India won by 336 runs
- 3rd Test (Lord’s): England won by 22 runs
- 4th Test (Manchester): Starting July 23, 2025
2025 Bowling Heroes
Jasprit Bumrah continues to climb this prestigious list. In the current series, Bumrah has taken 12 wickets, maintaining his reputation as one of the world’s best fast bowlers.
Akash Deep emerged as the star of India’s Birmingham victory. He took a magnificent 10 wickets in the match, including 6 for 99 in England’s second innings, becoming only the second Indian bowler since Chetan Sharma in 1986 to use English conditions so effectively.
Current Series: What’s At Stake
With England leading 2-1, India must win both remaining Tests to secure their first Test series victory in England since 2007. The bowling battle will be crucial in determining the series outcome.
England has embraced a more aggressive mindset, moving away from their “nice guys” approach of recent years. This mental shift, combined with their bowling strength, makes them favorites for the remaining matches.
For India, the fitness of key bowlers like Jasprit Bumrah remains a concern, but news suggests he’ll be available for the crucial fourth Test at Old Trafford.
Modern vs Classic
The evolution of bowling in England vs India Tests is fascinating. While classical spinners like Bedi and Chandrasekhar used flight and guile, modern bowlers like Bumrah rely on pace variations and unique actions. Similarly, Anderson’s swing mastery represents the pinnacle of seam bowling evolution.
Bumrah’s rapid rise to 9th position in just 16 Tests shows how modern cricket’s intensity can fast-track great performers into the record books.
Ashwin’s achievement as the only Indian bowler to cross 100 wickets against England demonstrates his mastery across different conditions and eras.
Also Read- Old Trafford, Manchester Stats & Records | IND vs ENG 4th Test 2025
Frequently Asked Questions
Q: Who has taken the most wickets in England vs India Test matches?
A: James Anderson holds the record with 149 wickets, followed by Ravichandran Ashwin with 114 wickets.
Q: Which Indian bowler has the most wickets against England?
A: Ravichandran Ashwin leads for India with 114 wickets against England in Test cricket.
Q: What’s the current status of the England vs India 2025 Test series?
A: England leads the five-match series 2-1, with the fourth Test starting on July 23, 2025, in Manchester.
Q: How many Indian bowlers are in the top 10 wicket-takers list?
A: Seven Indian bowlers feature in the top 10, showing India’s strong bowling tradition against England.
Q: Who is the fastest to reach high wicket tallies in this rivalry?
A: Jasprit Bumrah has achieved 72 wickets in just 16 Tests, showcasing remarkable efficiency.
Q: When did India last win a Test series in England?
A: India’s last Test series victory in England was in 2007, making the current 2025 series crucial for ending this 18-year drought.
Q: Which bowler has the best average in this list?
A: Jasprit Bumrah has the best average at 21.97, followed by James Anderson at 25.47.
Q: Are there any active bowlers who might break these records?
A: Yes, Jasprit Bumrah (currently 9th) and Ravindra Jadeja (8th) are both active and could climb higher with strong performances in future series.