The mere fact that England has appeared in several Test matches allows them to be the most noteworthy cricket team. Additionally, any player who plays for his team and records the best bowling mark on his Test debut deserves to feel immensely proud of himself. On the same note, we will look at the top 3 bowling figures by England players in their debut match
3. 12/102 – Fred Martin vs Australia at The Oval in 1890
The very first player to earn two five-wicket hauls in a debut Test match was none other than England’s star bowler Fred Martin against Australia at The Oval in London in 1890, during which he grabbed six wickets in each of both of his innings. The highest scoring total for a Test cricket debut at the time was the star bowler’s 12 wickets for 102 runs, and that milestone lasted for several years. Notably, at that time, Australia scored 95 and 102 runs while batting first. Later, while chasing, the home team scored 100 and 95 runs to claim the victory by two wickets.
2. 11/96 – Charles Marriott vs West Indies at The Oval in 1933
At the mature and old age of 38, on August 12th, 1933, England star bowler Charlie Marriott finally got the cherished England cap in the Third Test clash against the West Indies at the Oval, taking the spot of Hedley Verity, who was rested during that match. He had a remarkable 11-wicket haul for 96 runs at an average of 8.72 throughout that Test. Notably, on that day, the home team posted a target of 312 runs against the Windies. Later, while chasing, the visitors could only manage 100 and 195 runs against England.
1. 11/145 – Alec Bedser vs India at Lord’s in 1946
Notably, on June 22, 1946, at Lord’s, England’s star bowler Alec Bedser featured in his debut Test match against Team India. Bedser quickly grabbed seven wickets, although he only gave up 49 runs in the first innings. Continuing his initial performance, he again played in the second innings, bagging four more wickets for 96 runs. Notably, on that day, Team India posted a target of 200 runs before getting all out, while the English team set up 428 runs in the first inning. Following that, India was only able to manage 275 runs in the second innings, while Australia scored 48 runs and won that match by 10 wickets against tough visitors.