In discussions regarding dismissals in cricket, the hit wicket is frequently relegated to a secondary role.
Nevertheless, there is a record that should be brought to our notice for the most wickets taken struck wicket.
This record, which is a monument to both the bowler’s brilliance and the batsman’s bad luck, is a one-of-a-kind combination of both skill and serendipity.
Dismissals in cricket are an art. They narrate stories of battles between the bat and ball. Among these, the hit wicket stands as a unique chapter.
It’s not just about the bowler’s skill or the batsman‘s error. It’s about that unexpected moment that changes the course of the game.
Key Takeaways: Cricket Record for Most Wickets Taken Hit Wicket
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- The hit wicket dismissal, though rare, has its own charm and intrigue in the world of cricket.
- Records for most wickets taken hit wicket vary across formats, with legends like CA Walsh and LH Ferguson making their mark.
- The unpredictability of cricket is highlighted by the hit wicket dismissal, reminding us of the game's ever-evolving dynamics.
- Bowlers, through their skill and pressure, can indirectly influence a hit wicket dismissal, adding another feather to their cap.
- As fans, the hit wicket dismissal offers a unique spectacle, a blend of surprise, skill, and serendipity.
Top 5 Players with the Most Wickets Taken Hit Wicket in ODIs
One-Day Internationals (ODIs) have seen their fair share of hit wicket dismissals. The rush to score, the pressure of the moment, and the sheer unpredictability of the game have contributed to this record.
The most wickets taken hit wicket in ODIs is a number that has cricket enthusiasts on the edge of their seats.
1. CA Walsh (WI)
Courtney Walsh, representing the West Indies from 1985 to 2000, played 205 matches. With 10,822 balls bowled, he conceded 6,918 runs. Impressively, he took 227 wickets, with his best bowling figures being 5/1. With an average of 30.47, he managed to achieve the hit wicket dismissals most wickets taken hit wicket three times, accounting for 1.32% of his total wickets.
2. Wasim Akram (PAK)
The legendary Wasim Akram, playing for Pakistan from 1984 to 2003, graced 356 ODIs. He bowled a whopping 18,186 balls, giving away 11,812 runs. Akram’s record stands tall with 502 wickets, and his best performance in a match was 5/15. With an average of 23.52, he achieved the hit wicket dismissals three times, which is 0.59% of his total wickets.
3. IR Bishop (WI)
Ian Bishop, another gem from the West Indies, played from 1988 to 1997. In his 84 matches, he bowled 4,332 balls and conceded 3,127 runs. Bishop took 118 wickets in total, with his best figures being 5/25. With an average of 26.50, he achieved the most wickets taken hit wicket twice, making up 1.69% of his total dismissals.
4. MA Holding (WI)
Michael Holding, known for his fierce pace, represented the West Indies from 1976 to 1987. In 102 matches, he bowled 5,473 balls and gave away 3,034 runs. Holding secured 142 wickets, with his best performance being 5/26. Averaging 21.36, he achieved the hit wicket dismissals twice, accounting for 1.4% of his total wickets.
5. B Lee (AUS)
Brett Lee, the Australian speedster, played from 2000 to 2012. In 221 matches, he bowled 11,185 balls and conceded 8,877 runs. Lee took an impressive 380 wickets, with 5/22 being his best figures. With an average of 23.36, he achieved the most wickets taken hit wicket twice, which is 0.52% of his total dismissals.
T20i: The Quick-Fire Drama
T20 internationals, with their rapid pace and high stakes, have also witnessed a surge in hit wicket dismissals.
Batsmen, in their quest to dominate, sometimes falter, leading to the most wickets taken hit wicket. This record, in the T20i format, is a testament to the game’s ever-evolving dynamics.
1. LH Ferguson (NZ)
Leading the pack is New Zealand‘s LH Ferguson. Between 2017 and 2023, Ferguson played 33 matches, delivering 692 balls and conceding 903 runs. His tally of 44 wickets, with a best bowling figure of 5/21, is commendable. But what stands out is his record for dismissals most wickets taken hit wicket, with an impressive 2 hit wickets, accounting for 4.54% of his total dismissals.
2. D Malinga (SWZ)
D Malinga, representing SWZ, had a brief but impactful stint in 2022. In just three matches, he bowled 36 balls, giving away 56 runs. With 5 wickets under his belt and a best figure of 4/28, Malinga’s record boasts of 1 hit wicket dismissal, which is a whopping 20% of his total dismissals.
3. VL Mukesh (SEY)
VL Mukesh, playing for SEY between 2021 and 2022, participated in 8 matches. He bowled 84 balls, conceding 121 runs. With a total of 2 wickets and a best performance of 2/44, Mukesh’s record includes 1 hit wicket dismissal, making up 50% of his total dismissals.
4. I Elec (TKY)
I Elec, representing TKY from 2022 to 2023, has been part of 8 matches. He has bowled 114 balls, allowing 120 runs. With 6 wickets and a best figure of 4/31, Elec’s tally includes 1 hit wicket, which accounts for 16.66% of his total dismissals.
5. D Bishoo (WI)
Last but not least, D Bishoo of the West Indies, who played between 2011 and 2019, took part in 7 matches. He delivered 121 balls, conceding 137 runs. With 7 wickets and a best performance of 4/17, Bishoo’s record also features 1 hit wicket dismissal, contributing to 14.28% of his total dismissals.
5 of Cricket’s Best: Most Wickets Taken Hit Wicket Test Leaderboard
Test cricket, the game’s longest format, offers a different kind of challenge. Patience is key, but even in this format, hit wicket dismissals have made their mark.
The record for most wickets taken hit wicket in Test matches is a gentle reminder that cricket, in all its forms, is full of surprises.
GD McKenzie (AUS)
Spanning a decade from 1961 to 1971, GD McKenzie’s illustrious career saw him play 60 matches. With a total of 246 wickets, his best bowling figures stand at an impressive 8/71. McKenzie’s average of 29.78 showcases his consistency. Among these dismissals, the most wickets taken hit wicket under his name is a testament to his prowess and the pressure he exerted on batsmen.
H Verity (ENG)
H Verity, representing England between 1931 and 1939, played 40 matches. With 144 wickets to his name and an enviable best bowling figure of 8/43, Verity’s average of 24.37 speaks volumes about his skill. His contribution to the dismissals most wickets taken hit wicket in Test cricket is a chapter of its own in the annals of the sport.
RR Lindwall (AUS)
RR Lindwall, another Australian gem, graced the cricket field from 1946 to 1960. In 61 matches, he claimed 228 wickets with a best figure of 7/38. Averaging 23.03, Lindwall’s name is etched in history for his significant number of hit wicket dismissals, adding a unique feather to his cap.
MH Mankad (IND)
MH Mankad, an Indian cricket stalwart, played between 1946 and 1959. In 44 matches, he secured 162 wickets with an outstanding best figure of 8/52. With an average of 32.32, Mankad’s contribution to the most wickets taken hit wicket in Tests is a testament to his ability to surprise batsmen.
FS Trueman (ENG)
FS Trueman, an English cricket legend, showcased his talent from 1952 to 1965. Playing 67 matches, he amassed a whopping 307 wickets. His best bowling figure, an astounding 8/31, and an average of 21.57, make him one of the best. Among these wickets, his hit wicket dismissals stand as a testament to his unparalleled skill.
Conclusion for Most Wickets Taken Hit Wicket
The core of cricket is a game built on decisive moments. The record for the most wickets taken by hitting the wicket across all formats is a reflection of those surprising and remarkable moments.
As fans, we hold a deep reverence for these records, and not just because of the numerical values they contain but also for the narratives they convey.
When you watch a match in the future, keep an eye out for an unexpected hit wicket dismissal that occurs. A timely reminder that in cricket, anything may happen at any time.
FAQ - Cricket Record for Most Wickets Taken Hit Wicket
What is a hit wicket dismissal in cricket?
A hit wicket dismissal occurs when a batsman, while receiving a ball or immediately after, unintentionally strikes the stumps, causing the bails to dislodge.
How common is the hit wicket dismissal in international cricket?
While it's one of the rarer forms of dismissals, the hit wicket has its moments of prominence, especially in high-pressure situations.
Who holds the record for the most wickets taken hit wicket across all formats?
The record varies by format. In ODIs, CA Walsh leads, while in T20is, LH Ferguson shines. Test cricket has its own champions, with names like GD McKenzie making the list.
Do bowlers get credit for a hit wicket dismissal?
Yes, bowlers are credited with the wicket when a batsman is dismissed hit wicket.
Is there a specific strategy bowlers use to achieve hit wicket dismissals?
While bowlers primarily focus on traditional dismissals, the pressure they exert can sometimes lead to batsmen making errors, resulting in hit wicket dismissals.
