Most Test Wickets in Cricket History: Muralitharan, Warne & Anderson

Muttiah Muralitharan of Sri Lanka holds the world record for most Test wickets with 800, taken in 133 Tests at an average of 22.72. His record is considered the most unbreakable in cricket — no active bowler is close to threatening it.

Muralitharan — 800 Wickets

Muralitharan's 800th wicket came in his final Test — against India in Colombo in July 2010, in what was announced as his retirement match. He took his 800th with the last ball of the innings, dismissing Pragyan Ojha. The symmetry of the moment made it one of Test cricket's most emotional farewells.

Shane Warne — 708 Wickets

Shane Warne took 708 Test wickets at 25.41 in 145 Tests. He briefly held the record (ahead of Muralitharan) and is considered by many the greatest bowler to have played the game. Warne's 708 wickets came with the added artistry of leg-spin, widely regarded as cricket's most difficult bowling discipline.

James Anderson — 700+ Wickets

James Anderson of England and Lancashire became the first fast bowler to take 700 Test wickets. As of his retirement in 2024, Anderson had taken more Test wickets than any fast bowler in history.

Top 5 Test Wicket-Takers