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Noman Ali becomes oldest bowler to reach 100 Test wickets at 39 years 213 days
Noman Ali reached 100 Test wickets at the age of 39 years and 213 days during Pakistan's Test against Bangladesh on May 12, 2026, becoming the oldest player to achieve the milestone. The milestone came as Pakistan sought a place in the ICC World Test Championship Final at Lord's in 2027, with his earlier career highlights and historical records also noted in the report.
Why It Matters
The milestone underscores the evolving perception of age in professional sport and highlights Pakistan's position in the World Test Championship race, while linking historical records to a current achievement.
Timeline
9 Events
Bobby Peel previously held the record for oldest to 100 Test wickets
1895
Bobby Peel had previously held the record after reaching the 100-wicket mark at 39 years and 180 days during the 1894-95 Ashes tour of Australia.
ICC World Test Championship Final scheduled for June 2027
May 12, 2026
The article notes the World Test Championship Final is scheduled to be held at Lord's in June 2027 as Pakistan eye a place in the final.
Noman Ali reaches 100 Test wickets at 39y213d
May 12, 2026
Noman Ali achieved 100 Test wickets at the age of 39 years and 213 days, becoming the oldest player in cricket history to reach the milestone, during the ongoing second innings of Pakistan's opening Test against Bangladesh.
Rises to second in ICC Test bowling rankings in 2025
2025
Noman Ali rose to a career-best second spot in the ICC Test bowling rankings in 2025, with more than 840 rating points.
Hat-trick against West Indies in January 2025
January 2025
Noman Ali took a hat-trick against the West Indies in January 2025, becoming the first Pakistan spinner to achieve the feat.
Career-best 11 for 147 against England
2024
Noman Ali recorded career-best figures of 11 for 147 against England in 2024.
Noman Ali takes five-wicket haul on Test debut
2021
In his 2021 Test debut match, Noman Ali took a five-wicket haul in the second innings, becoming the 12th Pakistan bowler to achieve the feat on debut.
Noman Ali makes Test debut for Pakistan vs South Africa
2021
Noman Ali made his Test debut for Pakistan against South Africa in 2021.
Ray Illingworth reaches 100 Test wickets at 39y30d (third on list)
1971
Ray Illingworth achieved 100 Test wickets at 39 years and 30 days in 1971, moving to third on the all-time list.