India-South Africa Test Series It is always a treat for cricket fans, showcasing intense competition and memorable performances. Both teams have a rich history in Test cricket, which is reflected in some of the best bowling figures that have shaped matches over the years. As South Africa get ready for tour India For the two-match Test series, starting on November 14, 2025, anticipation is high for exciting contests at iconic venues such as Eden Gardens, Kolkata and Barsapara Cricket Stadium, Guwahati. This series will not only test the skills and strategies of both the sides but will also add new chapters to their competitive legacy.
South Africa, the reigning World Test champions, are coming to India with a mix of experienced players and new players eager to conquer the challenging subcontinent conditions. led by Temba Bavuma and include leading bowlers such as Kagiso Rabada And marco jansonThe visitors will face a strong Indian team Shubman Gilllead a. India’s powerful attack includes options of bowlers like pace and spin. Jasprit Bumrah, Mohammad SirajAnd Ravindra JadejaThis historic rivalry promises exciting cricket, especially with past bowling exploits setting sky-high standards,
Top 5 best bowling figures in an innings
1. Lance Klusener (South Africa) – 8/64, Eden Gardens, 1996
lance klusenerHis brilliant bowling spell remains the best innings figure in the India-South Africa Test. In the fourth innings of the Second Test at Eden Gardens in 1996, Klusener bowled 21.3 overs with 4 maidens, conceding only 64 runs, while taking 8 wickets at an economy of 2.97. His devastating performance played a vital role in South Africa’s emphatic 329-run victory. This spell goes down in history as a standard of fast bowling excellence against India on home soil.
2. Dale Steyn (South Africa) – 7/51, Nagpur, 2010
dale steynA masterclass with the ball during the first Test in Nagpur in 2010 showcased his swing and accuracy. Bowling with 6 maidens in 16.4 overs, Steyn took 7 wickets for 51 runs at an economy rate of 3.06. His lethal spells consistently troubled the Indian batsmen, exemplifying why he is considered one of the finest fast bowlers in Test cricket history.
Also read: From Gautam Gambhir to Shikhar Dhawan: Cricket world united in mourning over Delhi blast tragedy
3. Shardul Thakur (India) – 7/61, Johannesburg, 2022
A relatively recent entry, Shardul Thakur The Wanderers made headlines by taking a career-best 7 wickets in the second Test in Johannesburg. Thakur gave 61 runs in 17.5 overs with 3 maidens and demolished the South African batting order. His effort was crucial in India bowling out South Africa for 229, producing one of the finest Indian bowling figures in overseas conditions against the Proteas.
4. Ravichandran Ashwin (India) – 7/66, Nagpur, 2015
Ravichandran Ashwin India continue to pose a threat to South Africa, as evidenced by this spell in the third Test in Nagpur. He conceded 66 runs in 29.5 overs with 7 maidens, while taking 7 key wickets at an economy of 2.21, helping India seal a crucial win. Ashwin’s skillful use of spin on Indian pitches has often tilted the balance in India’s favour.
5. Allan Donald (South Africa) – 7/84, Gkebaraha, 1992
alan donaldGkeberha’s fast bowling in South Africa’s home conditions showcased his raw pace and aggression. In 28 overs with 4 maidens, Donald took 7 for 84 with an economy of three runs per over. His performances were instrumental in South Africa’s efforts against India during the 1992–93 series.
Also read: IND vs SA: 5 South African players who can trouble India in the upcoming test series
