Off-spinner
Unofficial fan tribute — not affiliated with Jim Laker, their representatives, clubs, leagues, federations, or sponsors.
Origin
and identity
Laker turned off spin into Test cricket's most concentrated feat of bowling dominance.
Tall, accurate and capable of severe turn, he was the decisive spinner in Surrey's championship machine and England's post-war attack.
The Laker Match remains cricket's ultimate benchmark for a bowler taking command of an entire Test.
A defining
career arc
Jim Laker was born in Shipley, Yorkshire, England.
He took 7/103 in his first Test innings against West Indies.
He helped begin Surrey's run of seven consecutive County Championships.
He took 9/37 and 10/53 for match figures of 19/90 against Australia.
He ended a 46-Test career with 193 wickets.
Completed
milestones
The standing world record
All ten wickets against Australia
At 21.24 in 46 matches
Including three ten-wicket matches
These are completed, source-backed milestones; changing live totals are intentionally excluded.
The Laker Match remains cricket's ultimate benchmark for a bowler taking command of an entire Test.
Editorial
references
Editorial facts and completed milestones last reviewed on September 2, 2026. This independent tribute does not imply endorsement.