Muttiah Muralitharan, widely regarded as one of the greatest spin bowlers in cricket history and the highest wicket-taker in men’s international Tests, faced considerable controversy surrounding his bowling action.
It was alleged that Murali bowled with a bent arm, where his elbow flexed beyond the permissible limit. On April 21, 2004, the International Cricket Council (ICC) stated that Muttiah Muralitharan, the renowned spin bowler from Sri Lanka, may face a potential ban of up to 12 months if he persists in bowling his doosra.
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Following a match referee Chris Broad’s report, Muralitharan underwent comprehensive tests in front of 12 cameras on his bowling action at the University of Western Australia in 1996. The ICC conducted these extensive tests to determine the legality of his action. The tests conclusively revealed that his unique bowling style created an optical illusion, giving the appearance of a throw when, in fact, it was a legal bowling action.
Without a doubt, Muttiah Muralitharan is hailed as the undisputed King of Spin.
Most Test Wicket
Muralitharan’s exceptional career, spanning from 1992 to 2010, he played 133 Test matches, amassing an extraordinary record of 2.47 economy and 22.72 average. His remarkable achievement of taking 800 wickets in Test matches solidifies his status as one of the greatest wicket-taker ever.
Muralitharan stands alone as the sole player to reach this milestone, firmly establishing his dominance in Test cricket. Additionally, he holds the distinction of being the top-ranked Test player for the most wickets ever taken.
Most Wickets in ODIs
Muttiah Muralitharan’s cricketing prowess extends beyond the Test format, as he is the leading wicket-taker in One-Day International (ODI) cricket. From 1993 to 2011, he participated in 350 ODI matches and amassed a staggering 534 wickets, surpassing all other players in the game’s history with an impressive economy rate of 3.93 and an average of 23.08.
