Several bowlers have delivered standout performances in Test matches between India and South Africa. From Shardul Thakur's 7/61 to Mohammed Siraj's 6/15, these figures mark historic achievements. The upcoming series offers Jasprit Bumrah a chance to climb the rankings.
Bowling records in Test cricket between India and South Africa have always been thrilling. In recent years, Indian bowlers have made their mark on foreign pitches.
The list of best bowling figures is topped by Shardul Thakur with 7/61 in Johannesburg. He bowled 17.5 overs in high-altitude conditions to dismantle South Africa's innings. In second place is R Ashwin with 7/66 in Nagpur, where his precise flight deceived the batters. Harbhajan Singh featured twice with standout spells: 7/87 at Eden Gardens and 7/120 at Newlands on a fast, bouncy track. Ashwin's another notable effort was 7/145 in Vizag, bowling 46.2 overs in humid conditions. Mohammed Siraj claimed 6/15 in Cape Town in 2024, one of the finest overseas fast-bowling spells by an Indian in just 9 overs. Javagal Srinath's 6/21 and Anil Kumble's 6/53 are also impressive.
For most five-wicket hauls, R Ashwin and Dale Steyn share the top spot with five each. Ashwin achieved them in 14 matches (26 innings), while Steyn did so in 14 matches (23 innings). Javagal Srinath and Harbhajan Singh have four each, with Srinath from 13 matches (25 innings) and Harbhajan from 11 matches (19 innings). Jasprit Bumrah holds third with three from 8 matches (15 innings). The upcoming series presents Bumrah an opportunity to rise further. These records highlight the depth of Indian bowling.