Historic Moment For Pakistan Cricket As Noman Ali Breaks Long-Standing World Record

In the ongoing first Test between Bangladesh and Pakistan in Mirpur, Noman Ali created history as he became the oldest bowler ever to register 100 Test wickets.

It was on Day 5 of the rain-affected Test match that the experienced left-arm spinner reached the milestone while Bangladesh looked for a commanding finish against Pakistan.

Noman dismissed Bangladesh all-rounder Mehidy Hasan Miraz in the 69th over of the innings to claim his 100th wicket in Test cricket. The ball spun sharply and was edged off to the slip fielder.

With that dismissal, Noman Ali broke a 100-year old record. The veteran was 39 years and 213 days old when he completed his 100 Test scalps.

The previous oldest to the milestone was former English spinner Bobby Peel, who was 39 years and 180 days old when he accomplished the feat.

Oldest Bowlers to 100 Test Wickets

Noman Ali - 39y 213d

Bobby Peel - 39y 180d

Ray Illingworth - 39y 30d

Clarrie Grimmett - 39y 22d

Sydney Barnes - 38y 310d

The left-arm spinner finished the match with four wickets and also surpassed the Test wickets of former Pakistan all-rounder Abdul Razzaq.

Noman Ali's Late Rise Continues to Impress

Noman Ali made his international debut only in 2021 following years of work in the domestic circuit. Before he donned Pakistan colors, Noman had played over 100 first-class matches.

However, in his early years of international cricket, he proved to be one of Pakistan's most reliable options in Asian conditions and even played a key role in Pakistan's series comeback win against England at home in 2024 after they lost the opening game.

At 22 Test matches, Noman has claimed 101 Test wickets to go with his nine 5-wicket hauls and three 10-wicket match performances, all at a brilliant economy of 3.09.

Bangladesh meanwhile was in a comfortable position during the Mirpur Test. After securing a first-innings lead of 27 runs, Bangladesh increased the pressure on Pakistan with half-centuries coming from Mominul Haque and Najmul Hossain Shanto.

Bangladesh eventually set Pakistan 268 runs for victory on the final day.

The chase for Pakistan had begun with a whimper as Imam-ul-Haq was dismissed on 2 while debutant centurion Azan Awais chipped a catch for 15.

At 64/2 off 14 overs, Pakistan still had a chance but with Mehidy Hasan Miraz and Taijul Islam getting into their groove, it was the home side who was favored in the closing stages of the Test match.