Day-Night Test matches have witnessed some remarkable bowling performances under lights. This list highlights the top five bowlers who delivered game-changing spells, utilizing the pink ball’s unique challenges and conditions. From relentless swing to deadly precision, these performances not only dominated opponents but also etched unforgettable moments in cricket history, showcasing the art of bowling in twilight battles.
5. Mark Wood – 6/37 vs Australia, 2022
English speedster Mark Wood delivered a fiery spell in the fifth Test of the Ashes 2021-22 series in Hobart. Defending a 155-run lead in the first innings, Australia’s second innings collapsed under the relentless pace of Wood. His remarkable figures of 6/37 helped England dismiss Australia for just 155 runs. Despite Wood’s heroics, England succumbed to a 146-run defeat.
4. Trent Boult – 6/32 vs England, 2018
Trent Boult showcased his mastery with the ball in a thrilling day-night Test against England in Auckland, 2018. Exploiting a pace-friendly surface at Eden Park, Boult dismantled the English batting order with an exceptional 6/32 in the first innings. His efforts bowled out England for a mere 58 runs, setting the stage for New Zealand’s commanding victory by an innings and 49 runs.
3. Pat Cummins – 6/23 vs Sri Lanka, 2019
Australian pacer Pat Cummins delivered a lethal spell of 6/23 in a pink-ball Test against Sri Lanka at the Gabba in 2019. Cummins ripped through the Sri Lankan middle order, restricting them to 144 runs in the first innings. With a 10-wicket haul in the match, Cummins powered Australia to a dominant victory by an innings and 40 runs and earned the Player of the Match award.
2. Shamar Joseph – 7/68 vs Australia, 2024
Shamar Joseph etched his name in West Indies cricket history with a mesmerizing performance against Australia in 2024 at the Gabba during a day-night Test. Defending a modest target of 216 in the fourth innings, Joseph bowled through the pain of a toe injury to claim 7/68 in just 12 overs. His heroic effort secured a historic victory and earned him the Player of the Match accolade.
1. Devendra Bishoo – 8/49 vs Pakistan, 2016
Devendra Bishoo delivered a record-breaking spell of 8/49 in the second innings against Pakistan during the 2016 day-night Test in Dubai. His leg-spin brilliance bowled out the hosts for a paltry 123 runs, marking the best bowling figures in an innings for a day-night Test. Bishoo ended the match with 10/174, but despite his valiant efforts, West Indies fell short, losing by 46 runs.