When we talk about records in cricket, batting milestones often take center stage, such as centuries and runs scored. However, bowling achievements, especially in terms of sheer endurance, are just as significant. Among these, one of the toughest records to break is the number of balls bowled in international cricket.
A select group of bowlers have crossed the remarkable milestone of bowling over 50,000 deliveries, showcasing not just skill but stamina and longevity in the game. From Sri Lanka’s Muttiah Muralitharan to India’s Anil Kumble, let’s take a look at the five bowlers who have bowled the most balls in international cricket across all formats — Test, ODI, and T20.
Muttiah Muralitharan: The King of Spin
Total Balls Bowled: 63,132
Muttiah Muralitharan holds the extraordinary record of bowling the most balls in international cricket. Over 495 matches, the Sri Lankan spinner delivered a staggering 63,132 balls, setting a world record that is unlikely to be broken soon. Alongside this, Muralitharan also holds the record for the most wickets in international cricket, with 1,347 dismissals. He achieved the feat of taking 5 wickets in an innings 77 times and claimed 10 wickets in a match on 22 occasions.
Anil Kumble: India’s Bowling Legend
Total Balls Bowled: 55,346
India’s very own Anil Kumble stands second in the list, having bowled 55,346 balls during his illustrious career. Kumble’s tally of 956 wickets, including 5 wickets in an innings 37 times and 10 wickets in a match 8 times, made him one of the greatest spinners in the world. His ability to consistently trouble batsmen across all formats has made him an unforgettable figure in Indian cricket.
Shane Warne: The Spin Wizard of Australia
Total Balls Bowled: 51,347
Australian leg-spinner Shane Warne, regarded as one of the finest bowlers in cricket history, bowled 51,347 balls over his international career. Warne took 1,001 wickets in 339 matches, with a personal best of 8 wickets for 71 runs. His artistry with the ball and ability to deceive batsmen made him a household name across the cricketing world.
James Anderson: England’s Fast Bowling Maestro
Total Balls Bowled: 50,043
England’s pace spearhead James Anderson is the only fast bowler in this elite group. Over 401 international matches, Anderson has bowled 50,043 deliveries, taking 991 wickets. Known for his deadly swing and pinpoint accuracy, Anderson has been a cornerstone of England’s bowling attack for over two decades. His best performance includes an innings of 7 wickets for 42 runs.
Daniel Vettori: New Zealand’s Spin Sensation
Total Balls Bowled: 43,661
New Zealand’s left-arm spinner Daniel Vettori rounds out the top five, having bowled 43,661 balls across his international career. Vettori’s wicket haul stands at 705, with 5-wicket innings 22 times and 10 wickets in a match three times. Known for his clever variations and accurate line and length, Vettori was a key figure in New Zealand cricket.
Active Bowlers: Nathan Lyon and R. Ashwin
Among active players, Australia’s Nathan Lyon has bowled 34,417 balls, closely followed by India’s R. Ashwin with 34,305 deliveries. While these players still have time to climb the ranks, breaking into the top five will be a tough challenge.
These bowlers have not only demonstrated their immense talent but have also shown remarkable durability, bowling tens of thousands of balls over their careers.
