Waqar Younis: Profile of Pakistan’s Reverse-Swing Yorker Specialist

Waqar Younis was one of the most feared fast bowlers of the 1990s. Born in Burewala in Pakistan’s Punjab province, he became known for pace, late reverse swing and a devastating yorker, and he formed a famous partnership with Wasim Akram.

Early life and rise

Waqar made his Test debut in Karachi in 1989 against India, in the match that also marked the Test debut of Sachin Tendulkar. He was still a teenager, and his raw pace quickly caught the attention of selectors and opponents. He soon became a regular part of the Pakistan attack, forming an effective new-ball pairing with Wasim.

Playing style

Waqar bowled quickly from a rounded run-up and was especially effective at making the old ball swing late towards the batter’s feet. His full-length deliveries, often aimed at the base of the stumps, were hard to keep out, particularly for tailenders. His strike rate in Tests is among the best of any bowler with a large number of wickets.

Career highlights

He took 373 wickets in Tests and 416 in one-day internationals, as of the end of 2024. In county cricket, he played for Surrey and Glamorgan, and his performances for Surrey in the early 1990s showed how effective he could be on English pitches. In England in 1992, he and Wasim were central to Pakistan’s Test series win.

Waqar also captained Pakistan at various stages. His career ended in 2003, and he later moved into coaching, including as the national team’s head coach and as a bowling coach.

Legacy

Waqar’s legacy lies in how he helped popularise reverse swing and in the standards he set as an attacking fast bowler. Along with Wasim Akram, he is remembered as part of one of the finest new-ball combinations the sport has seen, and many bowlers still study his methods.

Frequently asked questions

How many Test wickets did Waqar Younis take?

He took 373 wickets in Test cricket, as of the end of 2024.

What was Waqar Younis best known for?

Fast reverse swing and full-length yorkers, which troubled batters worldwide.

Which county sides did Waqar Younis play for?

He played for Surrey and Glamorgan.