South African spinner Senuran Muthusamy created history in the first Test against Pakistan by matching a remarkable 41-year-old record. His exceptional bowling performance placed him among a select group of bowlers to take five wickets in both innings of a Test match against Pakistan.
A Historic Spell from Muthusamy
Muthusamy delivered a memorable performance throughout the Test. In Pakistan’s first innings, he bowled with outstanding control and precision, taking 6 wickets for 117 runs. He continued his dominance in the second innings, claiming 5 wickets for just 57 runs, completing a remarkable 11-wicket haul in the match.
This incredible feat made Muthusamy only the second bowler ever to achieve five wickets in both innings of a Test match against Pakistan. His consistency and sharp turn on subcontinent-style pitches proved too difficult for Pakistan’s batting lineup to handle.
Matching a Record Set in 1984
The record Muthusamy equaled dates back to 1984, when England’s left-arm spinner Nick Cook accomplished the same milestone in Karachi. Cook had taken 6 wickets for 65 runs in the first innings and 5 wickets for 18 runs in the second, marking one of the most dominant bowling displays by a visiting spinner in Pakistan.
Muthusamy’s performance now puts him alongside Cook in cricket history, showing that high-quality spin bowling can still decide matches even in the modern, fast-paced Test era.
Surpassing Hasan Ali’s 2021 Record
In addition to matching a 41-year-old milestone, Muthusamy also broke Hasan Ali’s 2021 record for the best bowling figures in a Test match between Pakistan and South Africa. Hasan had taken 10 wickets for 114 runs in that match, but Muthusamy went one step further, ending the Test with 11 wickets for 174 runs.
His effort not only gave South Africa a strong position in the series but also reaffirmed the team’s growing strength in spin-friendly conditions.
A Statement of Skill and Patience
Muthusamy’s performance highlights the importance of adaptability and patience in Test cricket. On pitches known for favoring spin, his ability to vary pace, flight, and angle kept Pakistan’s batters under constant pressure. His contribution will be remembered as one of the finest bowling displays by a South African spinner in recent years.
