15 Most Maiden Overs in Test Cricket By a Bowler (2025)
In cricket, wickets and runs are often the subject of discussion, but one of the most underrated aspects of the game is the maiden over. A maiden over is a six-ball in which the bowler scores no runs. This not only shows skill but also immense discipline, precision and mental dominance over the batsman. In the long history of Test cricket, many great bowlers have made a name for themselves through their ability to bowl countless maidens.
Let’s take a look at the bowlers who have bowled the most maiden overs in Test cricket history.
1. Muttiah Muralidaran (Sri Lanka/Asia XI/ICC) – 1992 Maidens
The world’s leading wicket-taker in Test cricket, Muralitharan was also the bowler to bowl the most maiden overs in cricket history. With 1992 maidens, the legendary Sri Lankan off-spinner consistently frustrated batsmen. His exceptional spin, variety and relentless control meant that batsmen could not freely score runs against him. Muralitharan’s ability to keep batsmen tied up for long periods was as important as his wicket-taking skills.
2. Shane Warne (Australia/ICC) – 1871 Maidens
Warne is remembered for his temperament, charisma and match-winning spin magic. But one of his lesser-known strengths was his ability to bowl the maiden over. With the maiden over of 1871, Warne consistently applied pressure from one end, allowing his captains to control the game. Warne’s patience and cunning often forced batsmen to play risky strokes, which resulted in wickets. His duels with the top batsmen of his era demonstrated that the maiden over was a vital weapon in his arsenal.
3. James Anderson (England) – 1856 Maidens
The most successful fast bowler in Test history, Anderson is known not only for his swing but also for his ability to keep batsmen under control. His figure of 1856 maidens is a testament to his consistency and accuracy. Anderson has mastered bowling in English conditions. Not only that, he also knows the art of hitting the batsman repeatedly with a dot ball until it breaks. Even in the latter part of his career, Anderson is showing remarkable control, which places him among the greatest bowlers of all time.
4. Glenn McGrath (Australia/ICC) – 1749 Maidens
McGrath was the epitome of discipline in fast bowling. He often forced batsmen to make mistakes, which deprived them of scoring opportunities. His 1749 maiden overs emphasize his control and relentless accuracy. McGrath relied not on unpredictable pace but on patience, consistency and accuracy, which made him one of the most lethal bowlers in Test cricket.
5. Anil Kumble (India/Asia XI) – 1685 Maidens
India’s leading wicket-taker in Tests, Kumble was relentless in his accuracy. Unlike other spinners who focused on big turns, Kumble relied on pace, bounce and unerring accuracy. His 1685 maidens demonstrated his ability to keep batsmen under constant pressure. Kumble often bowled long spells, which limited scoring and helped the batsmen tire out until they lost their wickets.
6. Shaun Pollock (South Africa/ICC/Africa XI) – 1536 Maidens
Pollock was a master of control. Known for his impeccable line and length, Pollock rarely gave anything away. His 1536 maiden overs demonstrate his ability to frustrate batsmen into making mistakes. He did not express pace, but his accuracy and ability to move the ball in both directions made him the most dangerous bowler of his generation.
7. Stuart Broad (England) – 1362 Maidens
Anderson’s long-time partner Broad has been one of England’s greatest match-winners. His 1362 maiden overs show how he has created pressure, often leading to dramatic wicket-taking spells. Broad’s ability to swing the ball and maintain tight bowling spells has been central to England’s success over the past two decades.
8. Courtney Walsh (West Indies) – 1329 Maidens
West Indies great fast bowler Courtney Walsh was relentless in taking wickets and controlling the innings. His 1329 maidens demonstrated his ability to combine aggression and accuracy. Bowling alongside Ambrose, Walsh often bowled maidens that broke partnerships.
9. Lance Gibbs (West Indies) – 1317 Maidens
Lance Gibbs was one of the best spinners for West Indies. His 1317 maiden overs show the patience and accuracy he brought to the game. Gibbs was not only a wicket-taker, but also a bowler who could create long periods of pressure that could turn the match in his team’s favour.
10. Daniel Vettori (New Zealand/ICC) – 1297 Maidens
The New Zealand left-arm spinner was known for his discipline and subtle variation. With 1297 maidens, Vettori became a master at limiting scoring opportunities. His ability to control the game with precision made him a vital part of New Zealand’s bowling attack for years.
11. Kapil Dev (India) – 1295 Maidens
India’s greatest fast bowling all-rounder, Kapil Dev, was not just a wicket-taker, but also a bowler who knew how to control runs. His 1295 maidens highlight his discipline and bowling ability, which helped India succeed at crucial stages.
12. Derek Underwood (England) – 1263 Maidens
Known as “Deadly” Derek Underwood, he was a nightmare for batsmen, especially on wet pitches. His 1263 maidens came from a unique blend of spin and accuracy, making him one of the most effective spinners of his era. Underwood’s ability to bowl accurately under pressure was key to his success.
13. Curtly Ambrose (West Indies) – 1193 Maidens
Ambrose’s tall frame, bounce and relentless line made him almost unplayable. With 1193 maidens, he not only took wickets but also devastated the entire batting line-up. Ambrose’s stingy spells often broke the morale of opposing teams.
14. Chaminda Vaas (Sri Lanka/Asia XI) – 1175 Maidens
Sri Lanka’s legendary left-arm seamer Vaas was a bowler with superior accuracy. His 1175 maidens showed his skill in stopping batsmen. Murali scored runs at the sides with his spin bowling, while Vaas kept the pressure at the other end with his accuracy and control.
15. Bishan Singh Bedi (India) – 1113 Maidens
As part of India’s famous spin quartet, Bedi was an artist with the ball. His 1113 maiden overs are emblematic of his brilliant, looping deliveries that forced batsmen to make mistakes. Bedi’s patience and consistency made him one of the best spinners of his era.
ConclusionÂ
The bowlers who bowled the most maiden overs in Test cricket One aspect of the game is often overlooked: the ability to handle and create pressure. Wickets dominate the headlines, but maiden overs lay the foundation for success. From Muralitharan’s magic to McGrath’s discipline, these legends proved that patience and precision are as important as raw skill. Their records will serve as a reminder that Test cricket is not just about talent, but also about perseverance and control.
FAQs
Q1. Why are maiden overs so important in Test cricket?
Maiden overs create pressure on the batting side. When runs are low, batsmen are forced to make mistakes or take dangerous shots, which leads to wickets.
Q2. Who has bowled the most maiden overs in Test cricket history?
- Muttiah Muralitharan holds the record for 1992 maiden overs.
- His ability to increase pressure while taking wickets has made him the most dangerous bowler in Test history.
Q3. Do fast bowlers or spinners bowl more maiden overs?
Both spinners and fast bowlers are on the list. Spinners often bowl longer spells and can give more maidens due to their control.
Q4. How do maiden overs affect the outcome of a match?
By limiting runs, maiden overs frustrate batsmen, slow down the scoring rate and often lead to poor shot selection.
Q5. Which Indian bowlers rank highest in bowling maiden overs?
Among Indians, Anil Kumble (1685 maidens), Kapil Dev (1295 maidens) and Bishan Singh Bedi (1113 maidens) are the leaders.
