Prabath Jayasuriya, the Sri Lankan spinner, made history during the second Test against Ireland in Galle, where he broke a 71-year-old record by becoming the fastest spinner to claim 50 wickets in Test cricket. On the final day of the match, Jayasuriya dismissed Ireland’s Paul Stirling to reach the milestone in just his seventh Test match.
The second Test between Sri Lanka and Ireland in Galle witnessed Jayasuriya’s remarkable achievement. He had already shown his prowess in the match by taking 5 wickets for 174 runs in Ireland’s first innings. Now, needing just a five-wicket haul in the second innings, Jayasuriya had the opportunity to complete the feat of capturing 10 wickets in a match for the third time.This record-breaking achievement by Jayasuriya not only highlighted his exceptional talent but also his rapid rise in Test cricket since his debut against Australia in July 2022.
In his debut match, he finished with impressive figures of 12/177, ranking him fourth on the list of best debut match performances.With this record, Jayasuriya surpassed West Indies spinner Alf Valentine, who previously held the record for reaching 50 Test wickets in the fewest matches. Valentine achieved the milestone in his eighth Test match back in 1952. Jayasuriya’s accomplishment showcases his immense potential and the impact he has made in a short span of time.
Additionally, Jayasuriya’s record-breaking feat also places him among some of the fastest bowlers overall to claim 50 wickets in Test cricket. He joins the likes of South Africa’s Vernon Philander and England’s Tom Richardson, who also achieved the milestone in their first seven Test matches.
As Jayasuriya continues to excel in Test cricket, he now sets his sights on further milestones, including the pursuit of reaching 100 wickets in the fewest matches. His exceptional performances have not only elevated his status as a top-class spinner but have also contributed to Sri Lanka’s chances in the World Test Championship.
Fastest bowlers to 50 Test wickets
| Tests | Years | |
| 1. Charlie Turner (Australia) | 6 | 1887-1888 |
| =2. Prabath Jayasuriya (Sri Lanka) | 7 | 2022-2023 |
| =2. Vernon Philander (South Africa) | 7 | 2011-2012 |
| =2. Tom Richardson (England) | 7 | 1893-1896 |
| =5. Terry Alderman (Australia) | 8 | 1981 |
| =5. Rodney Hogg (Australia) | 8 | 1978-1979 |
| =5. Alf Valentine (West Indies) | 8 | 1950-1951 |
| =5. Frederick Spofforth (Australia) | 8 | 1877-1883 |
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