New Delhi: India’s right-arm pacer Mohammed Siraj achieved a remarkable milestone on Monday, surpassing Zimbabwe’s Blessing Muzarabani to become the highest wicket-taker in Test cricket in 2025. Siraj reached this landmark during the second session of the fourth day of the second Test against the West Indies at the Arun Jaitley Stadium by dismissing Shai Hope for 103 runs.
Siraj’s record-breaking performance
Siraj has played eight Tests in 2025, bowling a total of 1,575 deliveries (262.3 overs) and claiming 37 wickets at an average of 26.91. He has also bowled 39 maiden overs, conceded 996 runs, and recorded his best bowling figures of 6 for 70. His economy rate stands at 3.79, with a strike rate of 42.56, and he has taken two four-wicket hauls and two five-wicket hauls this year.
In comparison, Muzarabani has appeared in nine matches, delivering 1,660 balls (276.4 overs) and taking 36 wickets at an average of 28.63. He bowled 47 maiden overs, conceded 1,031 runs, and achieved best figures of 7 for 58, with an economy of 3.72 and a strike rate of 46.11, including three five-wicket hauls.
Day 4 highlights: India vs West Indies 2nd Test
The West Indies resumed their innings at 252/3, with Shai Hope and Roston Chase unbeaten. Hope completed his century on the 204th ball, hitting a boundary off Siraj in the 82nd over.
However, Siraj dismissed Hope for 103 off 214 balls on the penultimate ball of the 84th over, marking the record-breaking wicket. Tevin Imlach joined Chase but managed just 12 runs from 13 balls before being dismissed by Kuldeep Yadav in the 90th over.
Kuldeep then took two quick wickets, sending back Roston Chase (40) and Khary Pierre (0) at the team score of 298, helping India tighten control. The West Indies reached the 300-run mark in the 93rd over and ended the second session at 303/7, with Justin Greaves (5)* and Jomel Warrican (0)* unbeaten.
The last pair added 50 runs from 73 balls, with Warrican (3) and Anderson Phillips (2) dismissed at 307 and 311, respectively, setting up an intriguing finish for Day 4.
Conclusion
Mohammed Siraj’s achievement as 2025’s highest wicket-taker in Tests underscores his dominance in Indian cricket and his consistency across formats. His dismissal of Shai Hope not only helped India in a crucial moment but also highlighted his ability to deliver under pressure. With India in a strong position against the West Indies in the second Test, Siraj’s form is expected to be crucial in shaping the series outcome.