Published By: Sanchari Das

On This Day (Sep 2): Happy B’day, Ishant Sharma – Fifers of the Delhi Lad That We Simply Cannot Ignore

Ishant's finest moment in Test cricket came at Lord's, often called the 'Mecca of Cricket'

One of the finest pacers India has ever produced, Ishant Sharma turns 36 today. The experienced Indian fast bowler has been a key player in Test matches for India. Known for his match-winning test performances, Ishant has taken 311 wickets in 105 matches, including 11 five-wicket hauls. Nearly 70% of his 434 international wickets have come in Test cricket, showcasing his dominance in the format. Despite taking 115 wickets in ODIs and 8 in T20s, it's in Tests where Ishant truly shines. He is ranked fifth among Indian bowlers for most Test wickets. As we celebrate his birthday, it's the perfect time to revisit some of his best fifers.

7/74 vs. England at Lord's (2014)

Ishant's finest moment in Test cricket came at Lord's, often called the 'Mecca of Cricket.' In 2014, with England needing 319 to win, Ishant delivered one of the best spells by an Indian fast bowler. England looked solid at 173/4, thanks to Moeen Ali and Joe Root's century stand. However, the game changed when MS Dhoni turned to Ishant and asked him to use a barrage of short balls. Ishant dismissed Moeen Ali with an awkward fend to short-leg, then used his pace and bounce to dismiss Matt Prior, Ben Stokes, and Joe Root with mistimed pulls. Earlier in the innings, he had removed Alastair Cook and Ian Bell and added Stuart Broad to his list of scalps. Ishant's 7/74 led India to a memorable victory, sealing his place among India's great fast bowlers.

6/51 vs. New Zealand in Wellington (2014)

The lanky pacer was in top form in Wellington, taking his second six-wicket haul of the series and putting New Zealand on the back foot right from day one. With the conditions favouring him, Ishant's perfect line and length saw New Zealand bundled out for just 192 in their first inning. His superb 6/51 gave India a solid chance to push for a win on foreign soil. However, Brendon McCullum's remarkable triple century in the second inning thwarted Ishant's efforts, as New Zealand managed to save the match from a dire situation.

5/51 vs. England in Birmingham (2018)

Ishant showcased his brilliance against England in Birmingham once again, dismantling their middle order to put India in a strong position. After Ravichandran Ashwin took three early wickets, Ishant made the ball seam and swing, leaving England's batters clueless. Dawid Malan, Jonny Bairstow, Ben Stokes, Jos Buttler, and Stuart Broad all fell to Ishant's precise bowling, reducing England to just 180. Despite Ishant's five-wicket haul giving India a golden opportunity, the Indian batters faltered in chasing a modest 194-run target, ultimately losing the Test by 31 runs.

5/22 vs. Bangladesh (2019)

In India's first-ever Day-Night Test, Sharma shone under the lights, becoming the first Indian bowler to claim a five-wicket haul with the pink ball. His superb spell of 5/22 on the opening day set the tone for India's dominance. Ishant didn't stop there; he returned in the second inning to take 4/56, showcasing his mastery over the conditions. His combined nine wickets ensured India celebrated the historic match with a commanding victory.