Mohammad Abbas breaks Pakistan’s Test bowling record

Pakistan fast bowler Mohammad Abbas has created a new national record in Test cricket.

TAROUBA: Pakistan fast bowler Mohammad Abbas has created a new national record in Test cricket.

Abbas has surpassed legendary former captain Imran Khan to achieve Pakistan’s best bowling average among pacers with at least 100 Test wickets.

The 36-year-old reached the milestone during Pakistan’s first Test against the West Indies at the Brian Lara Cricket Academy in Tarouba.

Abbas dismissed Brandon King and Kavem Hodge during the West Indies’ second innings. He had already taken three wickets in the first innings.

The performance took Abbas to 115 Test wickets in 30 matches. His bowling average improved to 22.78.

Imran Khan previously held the record with an average of 22.81. He took 362 wickets in 88 Tests during his career.

Former Pakistan fast bowler Waqar Younis is third on the list. He claimed 373 wickets in 87 Tests at an average of 23.56.

Abbas made his Test debut against the West Indies in Kingston in 2017. He received his Test cap from then Pakistan captain Misbah-ul-Haq.

Despite his strong domestic record, Abbas spent more than three years away from Pakistan’s Test team.

He returned to the side during the tour of South Africa in December 2025. Since his comeback, he has once again become an important part of Pakistan’s pace attack.

In 2026, Abbas has taken 15 wickets in three Tests. His performances also include a five-wicket haul.

Abbas has also built an impressive record in first-class cricket. He has taken 894 wickets in 220 matches at an average of 20.36.

Among active first-class bowlers, Abbas ranks fourth for wickets. James Anderson leads the list with 1,181 wickets, followed by Simon Harmer with 1,054 and Malinda Pushpakumara with 1,010.

Abbas’ latest achievement adds another milestone to his career. His accuracy and consistency have helped him become one of Pakistan’s most effective Test bowlers.