India has been home to some of the finest bowlers in Test cricket history, especially spinners. In the longest format of the game, where age often becomes a hurdle for many players, a few Indian bowlers have delivered match-winning performances even in the twilight of their careers.
These bowlers have demonstrated that experience and refined skills can overcome the challenges of ageing. Achieving a five-wicket haul in Test cricket is a testament to a bowler’s mastery and ability to dominate the opposition’s batting line-up.
Oldest Indian Bowlers to Take a Five-Wicket Haul in Test Cricket
3. Anil Kumble – 37 Years, 70 Days
Anil Kumble, one of the greatest leg-spinners in cricket history, remains India’s highest wicket-taker in Test cricket with 619 wickets from 132 matches. Throughout his remarkable career, Kumble took 35 five-wicket hauls. At 37 years and 70 days, he became the third-oldest Indian bowler to claim a five-wicket haul in the longest format. This achievement came during the 2007 Melbourne Test against Australia, where he claimed five wickets in the first innings of Australia’s batting, delivering a brilliant 25-over spell. Despite his heroics, India lost the match by a staggering 337 runs.
2. Vinoo Mankad – 37 Years, 306 Days
Vinoo Mankad, one of India’s finest left-arm spinners, is the second-oldest Indian bowler to take a five-wicket haul in Test cricket at the age of 37 years and 306 days. This feat was accomplished during the Peshawar Test against Pakistan in February 1955, when Mankad captured five wickets in Pakistan’s second innings. His remarkable spell of 54 overs helped his team, but the match ended in a draw, cementing his place in Indian cricket history.
1. Ravichandran Ashwin – 38 Years, 2 Days
Ravichandran Ashwin, one of the finest off-spinners in Test cricket, is the oldest Indian bowler to take a five-wicket haul in the longest format at 38 years and 2 days. Ashwin, who has been instrumental in India’s successes, especially in subcontinental conditions, achieved this milestone during the 2024 Chennai Test against Bangladesh. His outstanding performance of 6/88 in Bangladesh’s second innings played a pivotal role in India’s 280-run victory. Ashwin also earned the Player of the Match award for his all-around contribution, which included scoring a century in the same match.
