Indian left-arm wrist-spinner Kuldeep Yadav has once again showcased why he is considered one of the best spinners in world cricket. On November 22, during the second Test against South Africa in Guwahati, Kuldeep picked up three crucial wickets, proving his mettle in red-ball cricket.
Despite the plethora of talented spinners worldwide, Kuldeep’s recent performance puts him statistically ahead of his peers. With his 30th birthday behind him, the 30-year-old continues to be a vital component of India’s bowling lineup, delivering consistently in crucial moments.
Kuldeep Yadav’s Record-Breaking Test Strike Rate
Kuldeep Yadav now holds the best-ever strike rate among spinners in Test cricket with a minimum of 50 wickets. His strike rate of 36.4 surpasses cricketing legends like England’s Jonny Briggs (45.1) and Colin Blythe (45.4) by a wide margin. This remarkable achievement highlights his ability to take wickets quickly, giving India a major advantage in matches.
During the second Test against South Africa, Kuldeep’s skill was on full display. He struck at critical junctures, dismissing Ryan Rickelton (35) and Tristan Stubbs (49), who were both well-set at the crease. His timely breakthroughs helped India gain significant control over the game, even on a day when the rest of the bowling attack struggled.
Leading Spinners by Test Strike Rate (Min 50 Wickets)
- 36.4 – Kuldeep Yadav (IND)
- 45.1 – Jonny Briggs (ENG)
- 45.4 – Colin Blythe (ENG)
- 46.6 – Axar Patel (IND)
- 47.2 – Simon Harmer (SA)
Kuldeep Yadav’s exceptional strike rate cements his place as a modern-day spin maestro. With his continued consistency, he is not just leading India’s spin attack but also setting benchmarks in world cricket.
