Most economical six-wicket hauls for India in Tests
India created history with their maiden victory in Cape Town against South Africa to script a comeback in the two-match series. The Test, the shortest ever in history in terms of balls bowled, witnessed the ridiculous dominance from the pacers on either side, with a result being arrived at in a mere 107 overs. India’s win was headlined by record six-fors by their bowling spearheads Mohammed Siraj and Jasprit Bumrah. On that note, let’s take a look at the cheapest Test six-fors for India:
3) Javagal Srinath (6/21)
In a monumental showdown at Gujarat Stadium, Ahmedabad, on November 23, 1996, Javagal Srinath spearheaded India to a remarkable 64-run triumph against South Africa. Initially claiming two wickets in the first innings, Srinath’s prowess truly shone in the second innings. His fiery spell saw the swift dismissals of key players Andrew Hudson and Daryl Cullinan, setting South Africa back with no runs on the board.
Srinath’s whirlwind performance continued as he swiftly removed David Richardson, Jonty Rhodes, Allan Donald, and Paul Adams. His spectacular figures of 6 wickets for 21 runs in 11.5 overs dismantled South Africa for 105 runs in 38.5 overs, catapulting India to a 1-0 series lead. Srinath’s exceptional display earned him the well-deserved Player of the Match accolade.
2) Mohammed Siraj (6/15)
In the gripping clash between India and South Africa at Cape Town’s Newlands on December 3, 2024, pacer Mohammed Siraj delivered a stunning performance, marking his career-best bowling figures in Test cricket. Opting to bat, South Africa faced an early onslaught as Siraj swiftly dismissed their top order.
Within the initial six overs, he claimed the wickets of Aiden Markram and Dean Elgar. Continuing his fiery spell, Siraj struck again in the 10th over, sending Tony de Zorzi back to the pavilion. The 29-year-old further dismantled the Proteas’ lineup, securing vital wickets including David Bedingham, Verreynne, and Marco Jansen, showcasing his exceptional prowess with the ball.
1) Venkatapathy Raju (6/12)
In a memorable showdown between India and Sri Lanka back in 1990 in Chandigarh, Venkatapathy Raju, the talented left-arm spinner, showcased his brilliance on the pitch. With India setting a score of 288 runs in the first innings, Raju emerged as the game-changer. His mesmerising spell rattled the Sri Lankan batting lineup, securing a remarkable six wickets for a mere 12 runs in 17.5 overs, a feat etched in cricket history.
Raju’s finesse didn’t waver in the second innings either, clinching an additional two wickets while conceding 25 runs. His masterful performance propelled India to a resounding victory, winning the match by an innings and eight runs. It stands as a testament to Raju’s exceptional spin bowling and his pivotal role in India’s triumph that day.
