Dhaka: Pakistan’s experienced left-arm spinner Noman Ali has created history by becoming the oldest player in Test cricket to complete 100 wickets, achieving the milestone during the first Test against Bangladesh at the Sher-e-Bangla National Cricket Stadium.
According to Beyond Time News, the veteran spinner reached the landmark on Tuesday and also equaled a long-standing record held by Pakistan legend Fazal Mahmood in terms of matches taken to reach the milestone.
Landmark Moment in the Match
Noman Ali brought up his 100th Test wicket by dismissing Bangladesh’s Mehidy Hasan Miraz. He also played a key role in the innings, taking important wickets including skipper Najmul Hossain Shanto and Taijul Islam.
The achievement places him among an elite group of bowlers and makes him the ninth spinner and 20th overall to reach 100 Test wickets.
Oldest Player to Reach 100 Test Wickets
At 39 years and 217 days, Noman Ali became the oldest player in Test history to reach the milestone. He surpassed England’s Bobby Peel, who held the previous record since 1896 at 39 years and 180 days. Other names on the list include Ray Illingworth, Clarrie Grimmett, and Sydney Barnes, all cricketing greats from earlier eras.
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Fast Rise in Test Cricket
Noman also became one of the fastest Pakistani bowlers to reach 100 Test wickets, achieving the feat in his 22nd match. He now shares this benchmark with Fazal Mahmood, while faster achievers from Pakistan include Yasir Shah, Saeed Ajmal, Waqar Younis, and Mohammad Asif.
The world record for the fastest 100 Test wickets remains with England’s George Lohmann, who reached the mark in just 16 matches.
A Career-Defining Achievement
This milestone highlights Noman Ali’s consistency and impact in Test cricket, especially in challenging conditions. His achievement adds another proud moment to Pakistan’s rich spin-bowling legacy and strengthens his place among modern Test cricket performers.
