Introduction
On January 6, 2026, cricket fans celebrate Kapil Dev's 67th birthday. Known as one of cricket's giants, he led India to the 1983 World Cup glory. Today, we dive deep into the Test stats of this legendary all-rounder and compare them with those of England's bowling maestro, James Anderson, both having played 131 Tests.
Kapil Dev's Test Career Overview
Kapil Dev amassed a remarkable career featuring:
- Wickets: 434
- Best innings figures: 9-83
- Matches won: 24
Key Statistics:
| Opponent | Matches | Wickets | Average |
|---|
| Pakistan | 29 | 99 | 30.12 |
| West Indies | 25 | 89 | 24.89 |
| England | 27 | 85 | 37.34 |
| Australia | 20 | 79 | 25.35 |
He is celebrated for his resilience and tactical acumen, inspiring a generation of cricketers.
James Anderson's Test Career Overview
James Anderson, on the other hand, has been a stalwart for England, with impressive figures:
- Wickets: 514
- Best innings figures: 7-42
- Matches won: 59
Key Statistics:
| Opponent | Matches | Wickets | Average |
|---|
| Australia | 28 | 95 | 34.89 |
| India | 22 | 86 | 28.17 |
| South Africa | 24 | 84 | 32.77 |
| West Indies | 17 | 72 | 21.83 |
Anderson's skill with the ball has set records, making him a key player in England's success.
Comparative Stats After 131 Tests
Bowling Averages
After 131 Tests, a comparison of their bowling averages shows:
- Kapil Dev: 29.64
- James Anderson: 27.34
Match Performance
In terms of critical performances in Test matches:
| Category | Kapil Dev | James Anderson |
|---|
| Five-fers | 23 | 25 |
| Ten-wicket hauls | 2 | 3 |
Impactful Matches and Legacies
Kapil led India through challenging phases while achieving incredible personal milestones. Meanwhile, Anderson's consistency has been crucial in England's cricketing narratives.
Conclusion
In conclusion, both Kapil Dev and James Anderson have made indelible marks in cricket history. Their stats tell a tale of excellence, passion, and the impact they've left on the game.