Top 5 best bowling figures in India vs South Africa Tests ahead of 2025 series

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India-South Africa Test series is always a feast for cricket fans, showcasing intense competition and memorable performances. The two teams have a rich history in Test cricket, reflected in some of the best bowling figures that have shaped matches over the years. As South Africa prepare to tour India for a two-match Test series starting November 14, 2025, anticipation is high for thrilling contests at iconic venues like Eden Gardens, Kolkata, and Barsapara Cricket Stadium, Guwahati. This series will not only test the skills and strategies of both sides but also add new chapters to their competitive legacy.

South Africa, the reigning World Test Champions, arrive in India with a mix of experienced players and newcomers eager to conquer the challenging subcontinent conditions. Led by Temba Bavuma and featuring key bowlers like Kagiso Rabada and Marco Jansen, the visitors will face a formidable Indian squad under Shubman Gill’s leadership. India’s potent attack combines pace and spin options with bowlers like Jasprit Bumrah, Mohammed Siraj, and Ravindra Jadeja. This historic rivalry promises exciting cricket, especially with past bowling exploits setting sky-high benchmarks.

1. Lance Klusener (South Africa) – 8/64 at Eden Gardens, 1996

Lance Klusener‘s legendary bowling spell remains the best innings figures in India-South Africa Tests. In the fourth innings of the 2nd Test at Eden Gardens in 1996, Klusener bowled 21.3 overs with 4 maidens, conceding just 64 runs while taking 8 wickets at an economy of 2.97. His devastating performance played a pivotal role in South Africa’s commanding 329-run victory. This spell is etched in history as a benchmark for pace bowling excellence against India at home.

2. Dale Steyn (South Africa) – 7/51 at Nagpur, 2010

Dale Steyn’s masterclass with the ball in Nagpur during the 1st Test in 2010 showcased his swing and accuracy. Bowling 16.4 overs with 6 maidens, Steyn took 7 wickets for 51 runs at a tight economy rate of 3.06. His lethal spells consistently troubled Indian batsmen, exemplifying why he is considered one of the finest fast bowlers in Test cricket history.

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3. Shardul Thakur (India) – 7/61 at Johannesburg, 2022

A relatively recent entry, Shardul Thakur made headlines with his career-best 7-wicket haul in the 2nd Test at The Wanderers, Johannesburg. Bowling 17.5 overs with 3 maidens, Thakur gave away 61 runs and dismantled the South African batting line-up. His effort was crucial in India bowling South Africa out for 229, marking one of the finest Indian bowling figures in away conditions against the Proteas.

4. Ravichandran Ashwin (India) – 7/66 at Nagpur, 2015

Ravichandran Ashwin has been a consistent threat to South Africa in India, with this spell in the 3rd Test at Nagpur standing out. Bowling 29.5 overs with 7 maidens, he conceded 66 runs while taking 7 key wickets at an economy of 2.21, helping India secure a significant win. Ashwin’s skillful use of spin on Indian pitches has often tilted the balance in India’s favour.

5. Allan Donald (South Africa) – 7/84 at Gqeberha, 1992

Allan Donald’s fiery bowling in South Africa’s home conditions at Gqeberha showcased his raw pace and hostility. Over 28 overs with 4 maidens, Donald took 7 wickets for 84 runs with three runs per over economy. His performance was instrumental in South Africa’s efforts against India during their 1992-93 series.

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