Best match figures on International Test debut
There have been many bowlers whose international careers did not get off to a dream start, but they persisted and went on to excel. However, there have been some bowlers who succeeded in creating a good first impression right from the word ‘go’ by registering best bowling figures on Test debut.
While it is extremely difficult to get breakthroughs for a bowler at regular intervals playing his maiden red-ball match, there have been some bowlers who overcame this challenge exceptionally well and made an instant impression. Here’s a look at bowlers with best figures on Test debut:
3) 12/102- Fred Martin vs Australia 1890
English bowler Fred Martin occupies the third spot in this category as he had achieved this feat over a century ago during an Ashes Test at the Oval in August 1890. Martin’s spell in both innings destroyed Australia as he finished with brilliant figures of 12/102. More importantly, he held this record for 82 long years. Martin registered figures of 6/50 in the first innings and 6/52 in the second as England went on to win by two wickets.
2) 16/137- Bob Massie vs England 1972
It was Australia’s Bob Massie who finally broke the 82-year-old record of Martin when he showcased his best bowling performance on debut against England during the second Test match at Lord’s in June 1972. Not only does this remain the best bowling figures at Lord’s but also the best bowling figures for an Australian anywhere. Massie finished with 16/137. His bowling figures included 8/84 in the first innings and 8/53 in the second.
1) 16/136- Narendra Hirwani vs West Indies in 1988
16 years later, Indian spinner Narendra Hirwani shattered all records. Hirwani achieved the feat during the fourth Test match against the West Indies in Chennai in January 1988 where he finished with figures of 16/136. Coincidentally, the iconic spinner registered eight scalps to his name in both innings. While he finished with figures of 8/61 in the first innings, Hirwani returned with figures of 8/75 in the second as India registered a comprehensive 255-run win.
