On this day 17 years ago, Muttiah Muralitharan etched his name in cricketing history by surpassing Shane Warne’s record for the most Test wickets. The legendary Sri Lankan off-spinner achieved this milestone during a Test match against England in Kandy on December 3, 2007.
Muralitharan’s record-breaking wicket came when he dismissed England’s Paul Collingwood, marking his 709th Test wicket, overtaking Warne’s tally of 708.
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The moment was celebrated with immense joy, both on the field and in the cricketing world, as the Lankan wizard became the highest wicket-taker in Test history — a record he still holds to this day.
Muralitharan’s achievement was remarkable not only for surpassing Warne but also for doing so in just his 116th Test match — 29 fewer than the Aussie leg-spinner.
Known for his extraordinary ability to extract turn and bounce, Muralitharan’s artistry with the ball made him a nightmare for batters worldwide.
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His incredible work ethic, precision, and consistency enabled him to dominate across all conditions. By the time he retired in 2010, Muralitharan had taken 800 Test wickets in just 133 matches, a feat considered nearly unbreakable.
Beyond the numbers, Muralitharan’s achievement symbolised his relentless dedication to the game and his ability to thrive under pressure. His record-breaking journey was also a source of pride for Sri Lanka, as he elevated the country’s stature in international cricket.
Seventeen years later, Muralitharan’s legacy continues to inspire budding cricketers, reminding the world of his unparalleled contributions to the sport and his status as one of the greatest bowlers in cricket history.
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