Pakistan fast bowler Mohammad Abbas produced another clinical display with the ball on Day 3 of the opening Test against West Indies at the Brian Lara Cricket Academy, continuing his outstanding run in red-ball cricket. The experienced seamer struck early in the hosts’ second innings to put Pakistan firmly in control of the contest, while his disciplined spell also helped him achieve a significant personal milestone that placed him alongside some of the greatest names in the country’s rich fast-bowling history.
Mohammad Abbas overtakes Imran Khan to accomplish a unique record
Abbas surpassed legendary all-rounder Imran Khan to register the best bowling average among Pakistani bowlers with at least 100 Test wickets, adding another memorable chapter to his impressive red-ball career. Abbas reached the milestone after striking twice in quick succession during West Indies’ second innings, helping Pakistan seize control of the contest. His disciplined spell not only rattled the home side’s top order but also elevated him above some of the greatest fast bowlers Pakistan has produced.
Having claimed figures of 3/63 in West Indies’ first innings, Abbas wasted little time making an impact after Pakistan took the lead. Bowling with his trademark accuracy, he dismissed Brandon King for five before removing Kavem Hodge for a first-ball duck in the same over. Those two wickets proved significant beyond the match situation. Abbas’ career bowling average improved to 22.78, allowing him to edge past former Pakistan captain Imran, who finished his illustrious Test career with an average of 22.81. Abbas has now claimed 115 wickets in just 30 Test matches, highlighting his extraordinary consistency whenever he has featured in the longest format.
Best averages for Pakistan in Tests (minimum 100 wickets)
- Mohammad Abbas — 115 wickets in 30 Tests at 22.78*
- Imran Khan — 362 wickets in 88 Tests at 22.81
- Waqar Younis — 373 wickets in 87 Tests at 23.56
Elite company away from home
The latest spell also strengthened Abbas’ reputation as one of Pakistan’s most dependable overseas bowlers. He became only the sixth Pakistani fast bowler to take 100 or more Test wickets away from home, joining an elite group featuring Wasim Akram, Waqar Younis, Imran, Mohammad Amir and Umar Gul.
What further distinguishes Abbas is that his away bowling average is the best among those six pacers, underlining his effectiveness in foreign conditions. Renowned more for relentless accuracy and subtle seam movement than outright pace, Abbas has repeatedly troubled batters on overseas pitches by maintaining disciplined lines and extracting movement off the surface. His consistency has often made him Pakistan’s go-to option whenever conditions have offered assistance to seam bowlers.
