Bangladesh’s Test cricket history has been shaped by a handful of standout bowlers, primarily spinners, who have consistently delivered strong performances. As of April 2025, here are the leading wicket-takers for Bangladesh in Test matches:
5. Mashrafe Mortaza
Mashrafe Mortaza ranks fifth on the list of most Test wickets taken by Bangladeshi cricketers. Over his Test career from 2001 to 2009, Mortaza played 36 matches and claimed 78 wickets. Mortaza contributions with the ball were significant during Bangladesh’s formative years in Test cricket, and he is remembered for his fighting spirit and ability to lead the attack, especially during challenging series. Mortaza’s Test career was hampered by injuries, but his impact remains substantial, making him one of Bangladesh’s leading fast bowlers in the format.
4. Mohammad Rafique
Rafique is ranked fourth on the list of most Test wickets taken by Bangladeshi cricketers. He was a pioneering left-arm spinner and became the first Bangladeshi to reach the milestone of 100 Test wickets. Rafique achieved this feat over 33 Test matches, bowling in 63 innings between 2000 and 2008. He finished his career with exactly 100 Test wickets, maintaining an economy rate of 2.79 runs per over and collecting seven five-wicket hauls.
3. Mehidy Hasan Miraz
Mehidy Hasan Miraz recently became the third Bangladeshi cricketer to reach 200 Test wickets, achieving this milestone during the first Test against Zimbabwe in April 2025. Hasan Miraz accomplished this feat in his 52nd Test match, making him the second-fastest Bangladeshi to 200 Test wickets, just behind Taijul Islam (48 Tests) and ahead of Shakib Al Hasan (54 Tests).
2. Taijul Islam
Taijul Islam is currently the second-highest wicket-taker for Bangladesh in Test cricket. As of April 2025, he has taken 219 wickets in 52 Test matches, only behind Shakib Al Hasan, who leads with 246 wickets from 71 matches. Taijul Islam’s consistency and match-winning spells have cemented his legacy as one of Bangladesh’s greatest Test bowlers, second only to Shakib Al Hasan in terms of wickets and impact.
1. Shakib Al Hasan
Shakib Al Hasan holds the record for the most Test wickets by any Bangladeshi player. As of October 2024, he has taken 246 wickets in 71 Test matches, making him the highest wicket-taker for Bangladesh in the format. Shakib’s dominance is unmatched in Bangladesh cricket history, and he is widely regarded as the greatest cricketer the country has produced, excelling as both a bowler and an all-rounder. His consistency and match-winning abilities have set him apart, and no other Bangladeshi bowler comes close to his Test wicket tally.
Also Read: Luxury, Power, and Cricket: The Life of N. Srinivasan
Shakib’s achievements are even more remarkable considering Bangladesh’s relatively limited Test schedule compared to major cricketing nations. His all-round contributions—being among the top run-scorers as well—underscore his status as a once-in-a-generation player for Bangladesh.
Conclusion
These bowlers have played a pivotal role in establishing Bangladesh’s competitiveness in Test cricket, especially in home conditions where spin has been dominant.
