The year 2023 witnessed a riveting display of cricket, particularly in the Test format, where the battle between bat and ball reached its zenith. As the red ball swung, seamed, and spun its way through various arenas, a select group of bowlers emerged as the architects of their team’s success. Delve into the fascinating world of Test cricket and explore the top five wicket-takers who left an indelible mark on the cricketing landscape in 2023.
Top five red-ball wicket-takers in 2023:
1. Nathan Lyon (Australia)
At the pinnacle of the list stands Australia‘s spin maestro, Nathan Lyon. With 47 wickets in ten games, his artistry with the red ball reached new heights. Notably, the first Test of ongoing Pakistan’s tour to Australia saw Lyon achieve a remarkable milestone – his 500th red-ball scalp. The off-spinner’s ability to spin webs around the opposition batters makes him a force to be reckoned with, solidifying his position as one of the premier spinners in the contemporary cricketing world.
2. Pat Cummins (Australia)
In the annals of cricketing history, 2023 will be etched as the year of Pat Cummins. Not only did he lead Australia to a historic triumph in the ICC World Test Championship 2021-23 against India, but he also orchestrated his team’s sixth ODI World Cup victory. The 30-year-old’s skills with the red ball were evident as he claimed 42 wickets in 11 games. The Aussie skipper’s leadership and all-round cricketing abilities make him a formidable force in the world of Test cricket.
3. Ravichandran Ashwin (India)
Indian spin wizard, Ravichandran Ashwin, continued mesmerising cricket enthusiasts with his craft in 2023. The seasoned off-spinner secured the third spot in the list of top wicket-takers, scalping 41 wickets in seven games. Ashwin’s ability to extract turn and bounce and his strategic brilliance played a crucial role in India’s success. As he continues evolving as a brilliant all-rounder, the 37-year-old remains integral to India’s red-ball strategy.
4. Stuart Broad (England)
Known for his prodigious ability to swing the ball both ways, Stuart Broad showcased his class in 2023 by claiming 38 wickets in eight games. England‘s pace juggernaut’s mastery over seam movement and control over line and length make him a constant threat to opposition batters. Broad’s contributions played a pivotal role in his side’s Test campaigns.
Also READ: Top 5 best ODI bowling figures in the year 2023
5. Mitchell Starc (Australia)
Closing the list is another Australian, the left-arm pace sensation Mitchell Starc, who clinched 38 wickets in nine games. Starc’s ability to generate express pace and extract movement both in the air and off the pitch makes him a nightmare for batters. As a key component of Australia’s formidable pace attack, the 33-year-old’s contributions were instrumental in his team’s success in Test cricket throughout 2023.
