5 best bowling spells by Indian bowlers against Sri Lanka

#3 Zaheer Khan 4/76, 2nd Test at Kandy, Aug 22-Aug 26, 2001

Zaheer Khan

It was one of those rare matches which saw a rare spell of fabulous swing bowling in the island nation. The wickets in Sri Lanka mostly favour the spinners and they always had the upper hand as compared to the fast bowlers. However, Zaheer Khan produced one of the most breathtaking spells of fast bowling in India-Sri Lanka Test match history in the second Test of the three match series at Kandy.

Sri Lanka had done a commendable job as they defended their first innings total of 274 runs and gained a 42-run lead over India. They were looking to pile up runs in the second innings. However, a magical spell of swing bowling from Zaheer Khan broke the back-bone of the Lankan batting line-up.

None of Sanath Jayasuriya (6), Kumar Sangakkara (13), Mahela Jayawardene (25) and Russell Arnold (4) could deal with his deliveries as Sri Lanka lost half of their side for a mere 100 runs. Although Venkatesh Prasad claimed a 5-wicket haul, Zaheer khan’s furious spell overshadowed him. He ended up with a spell of 4/76

India later chased down the target of 264 runs with 7 wickets remaining. Zaheer Khan’s match figures of 7/ 138 played a vital role in the tie.