Best debut wickets taken by bowlers in Test cricket

Just as batsmen cherish their first runs in international cricket, successful bowlers are often remembered for their exploits with the ball during their debut game. The longevity of a bowler's career is partly attributed to his performance in his debut game, as a good performance results in a longer run with the team.

Only certain bowlers seem to relish pressure situations though. On that note, let's take a look at the best wickets taken by a bowler on debut.

Note: This list is ranked according to the quality of the deliveries and the caliber of the batsman in question.

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#5 Nathan Lyon

Nathan Lyon is one of the best bowlers in world cricket today, and is a terrific exponent of spin bowling. Lyon currently holds the record for the most wickets taken by an off-spinner for Australia.

Lyon made his debut against Sri Lanka at Galle in 2011 and picked up his first wicket in International cricket off the very first ball he bowled. He picked up the crucial wicket of Kumar Sangakkara, inducing an edge from the Sri Lankan great off a delivery that spun sharply. It was neatly snapped up by Michael Clarke at first slip, as Lyon announced his arrival on the International stage with a bang.

#4 Dale Steyn

Dale Steyn is one of South Africa's all-time greats. He has one of the best ever strike rates in Test cricket, and also holds the record for the fastest to 400 wickets in Tests.

Steyn made his debut in the 2004/05 home series against England, where he picked up his maiden Test wicket. His first victim was Marcus Trescothick, who was bowled neck and crop by a pacy in-swinging delivery from the speedster.

#3 Brett Lee

Brett Lee steaming in to bowl was always a sight to behold. "Binga" proved to be the perfect foil for Glenn McGrath during Australia's golden period. His accuracy and raw pace made him an extremely lethal bowler both home and away.

Lee made his Test debut against India during the home series in December 1999, and took his maiden wicket off his very first over. He got rid of Sadagoppan Ramesh, who played on to his stumps. Lee eventually finished with five wickets in the innings, becoming the second Australian after Dennis Lillee to take a 5-fer on debut.

#2 James Anderson

Arguably England's greatest fast bowler ever, James Anderson is currently their highest wicket-taker in both ODIs and Tests. He recently became the latest entrant into the 500 wicket club in Tests, during the home series against the Windies.

Anderson made his Test debut against Zimbabwe in 2003 at Lord's, and made an immediate impression, picking up a five-wicket haul on debut. His first wicket was Mark Vermeulen, who was clean bowled by a delivery that nipped back off the seam and hit the top of off stump.

#1 Ajantha Mendis

"Mystery bowler" Ajantha Mendis made an instant impact on the international arena. Mendis made his Test debut during India's tour of Sri Lanka in 2008. He had a memorable outing, as his debut wicket was that of Rahul Dravid, who was bowled by a carrom ball.

Mendis took eight wickets in the match, the best by a Sri Lankan on debut. He holds the record for the most number of wickets in a three-match series, with 26 wickets to his name.