Men’s Test Bowling Official Rankings (February 2025)

Introduction

The ICC Men’s Test Bowling Rankings reflect the performances of the world’s top bowlers based on their recent form, consistency, and impact in international Test cricket. As of February 2025, several pacers and spinners dominate the rankings, showcasing their brilliance with the ball.

Here’s a detailed look at the top 10 bowlers in Test cricket.

1. Jasprit Bumrah (India) – 908 Points

India’s Pace Spearhead

• Jasprit Bumrah has reclaimed the No. 1 spot in the ICC Test bowling rankings.
• His unique action, accuracy, and ability to generate reverse swing make him one of the toughest bowlers to face.
• Key performances:
  • 5-wicket haul vs. England (January 2025)
  • Match-winning spell vs. South Africa (December 2024)

2. Kagiso Rabada (South Africa) – 837 Points

Fast and Fearless

• Kagiso Rabada continues to be South Africa’s leading fast bowler, known for his raw pace and aggressive approach.
• His ability to swing the ball both ways and his dominance against top-order batters make him a dangerous bowler.
• Key performances:
  • 6/50 vs. New Zealand (2024)
  • Brilliant bowling in home series against India

3. Pat Cummins (Australia) – 833 Points

Captain and Leader of the Attack

• Australia’s Test captain and one of the best pacers in the world.
• Known for his consistent line and length, high pace, and ability to extract bounce from any surface.
• Key performances:
  • 5/37 vs. Pakistan in Sydney Test (January 2025)
  • Outstanding Ashes series in 2023 and 2024

4. Josh Hazlewood (Australia) – 827 Points

The Metronome

• One of the most accurate fast bowlers in the world, Hazlewood’s control and consistency make him a crucial part of Australia’s attack.
• Key performances:
  • 4/42 vs. South Africa (2024)
  • Strong performances in India-Australia series

5. Noman Ali (Pakistan) – 806 Points

Pakistan’s Spin Wizard

• Noman Ali has risen in the rankings with his outstanding performances in subcontinent conditions.
• His ability to trick batters with flight and turn has made him Pakistan’s go-to spinner in Tests.
• Key performances:
  • 7/63 vs. Sri Lanka (2024)
  • Dominant bowling in Pakistan’s home series

6. Nathan Lyon (Australia) – 795 Points

Australia’s Most Reliable Spinner

• Lyon continues to be Australia’s primary spin weapon, known for his sharp off-spin and relentless accuracy.
• Key performances:
  • 8 wickets vs. England in the Ashes (2023-24)
  • Consistent wicket-taking in Asia

7. Marco Jansen (South Africa) – 785 Points

Rising Star in Fast Bowling

• A tall, left-arm pacer who brings extra bounce and pace.
• His ability to move the ball late makes him a difficult bowler to face.
• Key performances:
  • 6/41 vs. India (2024)
  • Crucial spells against England and New Zealand

8. Matt Henry (New Zealand) – 782 Points

New Zealand’s Underestimated Match-Winner

• Henry has been a consistent performer for New Zealand, often taking key wickets in seaming conditions.
• Key performances:
  • 5/38 vs. Bangladesh (2024)
  • Brilliant bowling in World Test Championship

9. Ravindra Jadeja (India) – 745 Points

All-Round Excellence

• Jadeja remains a crucial bowler for India with his accurate left-arm spin and ability to extract turn on slow pitches.
• Key performances:
  • 6/57 vs. England (January 2025)
  • Match-winning spells in Australia and Sri Lanka

10. Prabath Jayasuriya (Sri Lanka) – 742 Points

Sri Lanka’s Spin Sensation

• Jayasuriya has emerged as Sri Lanka’s top Test spinner, regularly troubling batters in home conditions.
• Key performances:
  • 9-wicket haul vs. Bangladesh (2024)
  • Brilliant match-winning spells at home