Top 5 “Chinaman” bowlers in cricket

Left-arm “Chinaman” bowler is a left-arm leg-spinner. The term “Chinaman” was given by former English player Walter Robins. He was facing a player of Chinese origin, Ellis ’Puss’ Achong, who was a left-arm orthodox spinner and was representing the West Indies side. Robins was stumped off a surprise delivery that spun into the right-hander from outside the off stump. Robins said to the umpire, “fancy being done by a bloody Chinaman!”, while walking back to the pavilion.

Since then, there have been few left-arm leg-spinners that have entered the world of cricket. Let’s look at the top five left-arm cricketers.

1. Sir Garfield Sobers

Considered as the “Greatest All-rounder” of all time, Sir Garfield Sobers was one of the cricketers who bowled “Chinaman” bowling. Garfield Sobers has taken 235 wickets at an average of 34 and was one fine cricketer.

2. Kuldeep Yadav

India’s Kuldeep Yadav quickly caught the eyes of the fans when he was introduced to the world. He has enjoyed good success in the limited-overs. He has great control over line and length and also a great wrong’un. His delivery to Babar Azam in the 2019 World Cup was one to remember.

3. Lakshan Sandakan

Sri Lanka’s left-arm leg-spinner, Sandakan has the ability to turn the ball both ways and has an effective topspin delivery. He is yet to mark himself in the cricket world as he is still trying to get his spot in the side permanently.

Here is his five-wicket haul against England in 2018 Test series.

4. Brad Hogg

Brad Hogg was one of the key players for Australia in 2003 and 2007 Cricket World Cups and was the only left-arm leg-spinner whose name was recognized around the world.

Here is Brad Hogg fooling Kevin Pieterson in the 2007 World Cup.

5. Paul Adams

A chinaman whose bowling action was more unorthodox. Paul Adams of South Africa first came into the scene in 1996 World Cup and stunned the world with his “Frog in the blender” action. His action was something fans could not easily get off from their minds.

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