Australia’s top wicket-takers in Test cricket are known for their exceptional skill and match-winning abilities. This elite group includes a legendary spinner, dominant fast bowlers, and consistent performers who have shaped Australia’s bowling legacy.
Test Cricket: Dennis Lillee – 355 wickets
Regarded as one of the fastest bowlers in history, Dennis Lillee claimed 355 wickets in 70 Tests at an impressive average of 23.92, including 23 five-wicket hauls. Alongside Jeff Thomson, Lillee formed a formidable bowling partnership during the 1970s and 80s. His best Test figures, 7/83 against the West Indies at the MCG in 1981, showcased his match-winning abilities. Lillee also contributed useful runs as a lower-order batsman, averaging 15 with the bat.
Mitchell Starc – 402 wickets
Left-arm pacer Mitchell Starc has become a mainstay in Australia’s Test squad since debuting in 2011, known for his lethal in-swingers and intimidating pace. He has taken 402 wickets in 100 matches, averaging 27.02, and has recorded 16 five-fors. Starc’s best Test figures of 6/9 came against the West Indies in 2025.
Test Cricket: Nathan Lyon – 562 wickets
Test Cricket: Nicknamed the “GOAT,” off-spinner Nathan Lyon is Australia’s leading wicket-taker among spinners, collecting 562 wickets in 139 Tests at an average of 30.14. Renowned for his consistent length and control, Lyon holds the distinction of being the only specialist bowler to play 100 consecutive Tests for Australia. His economy rate of 2.94 has also supported the success of his fellow bowlers.
Test Cricket: Glenn McGrath – 563 wickets
Famed for his precision and consistency, Glenn McGrath is Australia’s top fast bowler in Tests, taking 563 wickets in 124 matches at a superb average of 21.64. Nicknamed “Pigeon,” he recorded 29 five-wicket hauls during his 14-year career. McGrath’s best bowling figures, 8/24, came against Pakistan at Perth in 2004.
Test Cricket: Shane Warne – 708 wickets
Legendary leg-spinner Shane Warne tops the list as Australia’s most prolific Test bowler with 708 wickets, the second-highest in Test history behind Muttiah Muralitharan. Warne’s incredible tally includes 37 five-wicket hauls across 145 Tests—despite playing most matches on pace-friendly Australian surfaces. Idolized by leg-spinners worldwide, his legacy endures, even after his passing in March 2022.
