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As the cricketing giants, India and England, brace themselves for an intense five-match Test series, anticipation runs high among fans and experts alike. The battles between these two teams have historically delivered captivating cricket, and with both sides showcasing formidable talent, the upcoming series promises to be nothing short of a spectacle.
Bowlers’ magical impact in India-England Test clashes
Over the years, the India-England Test encounters have witnessed bowlers from both sides orchestrating game-changing moments with their magical spells. These instances, where bowlers emerged as the architects of victory, have added layers of drama and excitement to the rich tapestry of Test cricket.
In numerous instances, the fate of the game has been shaped by extraordinary bowling performances. These magical spells not only showcased the skill and determination of the bowlers but also left an indelible mark on the series’ narratives. Here are the top 5 best bowling figures in a game in India-England Test series, highlighting the bowlers who etched their names in cricketing history with their exceptional performances
Top 5 bowlers with outstanding figures in games in India-England Test series:
1. Ian Botham’s magical spell
The historic Test match at Wankhede on February 1980, witnessed Ian Botham‘s bowling masterclass. India opted to bat first, managing only 242 in their first innings. Botham’s exceptional figures of 13 wickets for 106 runs in 48.5 overs showcased his incredible stamina and skill. His pivotal all-around contribution, including a brilliant 114 in England’s first innings, played a defining role in England’s comprehensive 10-wicket victory.
In the first innings, India, after winning the toss, struggled against Botham’s relentless pace and precision, with Sunil Gavaskar‘s 49 being the top score. England replied with 296, where Botham’s century was the standout performance. The significant lead was extended as Botham wreaked havoc in India’s second innings, taking 7/48 and bundling them out for 149. Botham’s 13-wicket haul showcased his ability to maintain an impressive economy rate of 2.17 while consistently taking wickets, marking a defining moment in the England vs India Test series.
2. Vinoo Mankad’s masterclass
Vinoo Mankad’s performance in the Test game at Chennai in February 1952, remains one of the all-time great displays of spin bowling. Bowling 69.4 overs with an outstanding economy rate of 1.55, Mankad’s figures of 12 wickets for 108 runs showcased his control and ability to dismantle the opposition. His pivotal role in that Test match contributed significantly to India’s success against England, securing a win by an innings and eight runs.
The Test at Madras presented a challenge for bowlers, but Mankad’s command of flight and spin came to the fore. He dismissed England for 266 in the first innings, securing an incredible 8-wicket haul. Mankad’s ability to draw batters out and leave them stumped was evident, as four of his wickets were stumped dismissals. His remarkable performance set the stage for India‘s convincing victory and highlighted the artistry of left-arm orthodox spin.
3. Ravichandran Ashwin’s dominance
Ravichandran Ashwin’s brilliance came to the fore in the Test game at Wankhede in December 2016. After losing the toss, India did well to restrict England to 400 despite a century on debut by Keaton Jennings. In response, thanks to centuries from Virat Kohli and Jayant Yadav, India took a 231-run lead. England crumbled in the second innings, managing only 195 as Ashwin took a six-wicket haul, including all four wickets to fall on day five, helping India record an innings victory.
Ashwin’s figures of 12 wickets for 167 runs in 64.3 overs highlighted his mastery of spin bowling. His variations and strategic approach on a turning track played a crucial role in India’s triumph. This performance solidified his reputation as one of the premier spin bowlers in contemporary cricket, especially in home conditions.
Also READ: Top 5 leading wicket-takers in India vs England Test series
4. Laxman Sivaramakrishnan’s spin wizardry
Laxman Sivaramakrishnan‘s spin wizardry was on full display at Wankhede in November 1984. England won the toss and chose to bat. Sivaramakrishnan broke key partnerships early in the innings, dismissing Fowler, Robinson, and Gatting. His deceptive spin left England struggling at 78/3. In India’s reply of 465, Sivaramakrishnan’s crucial wickets in the second innings paved the way for India’s victory.
Bowling a marathon 77.2 overs, he conceded 181 runs while capturing 12 wickets. Sivaramakrishnan’s ability to extract turn and deceive batters showcased the artistry of spin bowling. His pivotal role in that Test match underscored the importance of spinners in shaping the outcomes of England vs India encounters.
5. Axar Patel’s recent brilliance
In a recent test encounter against England at Ahmedabad in February 2021, Axar Patel left an indelible mark with his exceptional figures of 11 wickets for 70 runs in 36.4 overs. Patel’s accuracy and ability to exploit conditions played a pivotal role in India’s success. This performance added a contemporary chapter to the rich history of England vs India Test games, showcasing the ongoing legacy of exceptional spin bowling talent in both teams.
