#4 Dennis Lillee (Aug 1975- Jan 1982)
Matches – 39, Wickets – 230, Avg – 22.65, 5W – 17, 10W – 6
Dennis Lillee was one of the most awe-inspiring bowlers of all time, and an idol of two great fast bowlers – Richard Hadlee and Glenn Mcgrath. While his record in Asia and West Indies is not indicative of his prowess, his overall numbers nonetheless serve as the barometer against which fast bowlers are (still) measured.
Lillee was in peak form between Aug 1975 and Jan 1982, during which he played 39 tests and captured 230 wickets at an average of 22.65. This was after he had recovered from a stress fracture which he suffered on a tour to the West Indies in 1973/74.
Having moulded his bowling style from a tear-away to a craftsman, Lillee emerged as the complete bowler he is still held up to be. Not many have come close to challenging that status.
(Video Courtesy: Chan77 YouTube Channel)
