As of 2024, Kagiso Rabada leads the ICC Men’s Test Bowling Rankings after a nine-wicket haul against Bangladesh. He surpassed Jasprit Bumrah, Josh Hazlewood, and R. Ashwin, while Noman Ali and others made significant advances in their rankings.
1. Kagiso Rabada
Rabada’s rise to the top of the rankings saw him surpass elite bowlers like India’s Jasprit Bumrah and Ravichandran Ashwin, along with Australia’s Josh Hazlewood. His blend of speed, control, and tactical bowling has been instrumental in his ascent, and his ability to adapt to different conditions has solidified his reputation. Rabada’s achievements in the 2024 rankings reflect both his skill and the significant role he plays in South African cricket, making him one of the premier fast bowlers of his generation.
2. Jasprit Bumrah
Despite the drop, Bumrah’s career Test achievements, including multiple five-wicket hauls and key breakthroughs, underscore his importance to the Indian team. With his skill in delivering precise yorkers, surprising bouncers, and effective variations, Bumrah remains a crucial player and is expected to regain his peak form and ranking with more Test appearances.
3. Ravichandran Ashwin
As of 2024, Ravichandran Ashwin remains one of the most celebrated spinners in Test cricket, holding a prominent position in the ICC Test Bowling Rankings. Known for his masterful off-spin and variations, Ashwin has consistently posed a challenge to batters worldwide. His ability to adapt to different conditions, especially in subcontinent pitches, has allowed him to dominate matches with high wickets tallies and impressive economy rates.
4. Josh Hazlewood
In recent rankings updates, Hazlewood has been a prominent figure among the top five Test bowlers, solidifying his place due to his impressive performances in the Ashes series and other key Test matches. His disciplined approach and knack for exploiting conditions, especially in favorable pitches, have allowed him to climb steadily, often competing closely with the likes of Kagiso Rabada, Jasprit Bumrah, and Ravichandran Ashwin.
5. Noman Ali
In 2024, Pakistan’s left-arm spinner Noman Ali made a remarkable leap in the ICC Test Bowling Rankings, solidifying his place among the top Test bowlers. After a standout performance in the Test series in Rawalpindi, where he claimed nine wickets, Noman surged nine places, reaching the eighth spot — his first entry into the top ten. This significant achievement reflects his growing influence and skill on the international stage, especially in the subcontinent, where spinners are often pivotal.
6. Rachin Ravindra
Rachin Ravindra, primarily recognized for his all-round capabilities, has recently climbed up the ICC Test Bowling Rankings in 2024. His remarkable rise in the charts is due to his consistent, impactful performances, particularly in key matches that showcased his skill in turning the ball and building pressure on batsmen. Ravindra’s journey into the top ten of Test bowlers marks a significant milestone in his career, as he joins an elite group in international cricket. Known for his accuracy and strategic approach, he has quickly become a go-to option for breakthroughs, enhancing his reputation as a vital asset in the Test format.
