Cricket has always been a challenge for subcontinental teams, especially in overseas conditions. Outside the subcontinent, Asian teams are often on the back foot, particularly in Test matches. However, several bowlers have shone brightly in white-ball formats in foreign conditions (South Africa, England, New Zealand, and Australia). Pakistani pacers make up the majority of these standout performers, but Indian pacers lead in terms of bowling averages. Let’s have a look at the list.
1. Jasprit Bumrah (India)
Jasprit Bumrah is one of the finest pacers of this era, known for his ability to dismantle opposition batting line-ups with perfection. He ranks at the top of the bowling averages list, with an impressive average of just 22.1. He is currently No 1 bowler in the Red-ball game. With 125 wickets to his name so far, Bumrah has proven himself as a world-class bowler in all conditions.
2. Wasim Akram (Pakistan)
Known as the “King of Swing,” Wasim Akram is undoubtedly one of the greatest fast bowlers in the history of cricket. Akram’s ability to generate swing made him deadly in foreign conditions, where he claimed 146 wickets at an average of 24.1. Though he fell short of 150 wicket milestone, his contribution to Pakistan’s pace attack remains legendary.
3. Muttiah Muralitharan (Sri Lanka)
The only spinner on this list, Muttiah Muralitharan, defied conventional expectations. While spinners typically find more success in the subcontinent, Muralitharan thrived in challenging, fast-paced conditions. He has 120 wickets in overseas Test matches at an average of 26.5, showcasing his mastery over varied conditions.
4. Imran Khan (Pakistan)
Imran Khan, one of Pakistan’s most iconic cricketers, was a key figure in the nation’s bowling attack. He is one of the greatest captains in Pakistan. His consistency in foreign conditions made him a dependable asset for Pakistan. With 109 wickets at an average of 26.5, Imran played a vital role in his team’s success overseas, especially in tough conditions.
5. Waqar Younis (Pakistan)
Another deadly pacer from Pakistan, Waqar Younis was renowned for his toe-crushing yorkers and his ability to bowl swing deliveries. He was a nightmare for batsmen and made his mark in overseas conditions. With 113 wickets at an average of 29.1, Younis is another formidable name in Pakistan’s history.
