Murali the greatest

By Anushka WITHANAGE

Muttiah Muralitharan, at the age of 36 years and 294 days, became the world's greatest bowler in both versions of cricket when he went past the 502- wicket tally in one -day internationals held by Pakistan's Wasim Akram.

Who is Muralitharan?

The son of a confectioner born on April 17, 1972 in Kandy, Murali started his career playing for St. Anthony's College, Katugastota. After representing Tamil Union Cricket and Athletic Club Sri Lanka he made his Test debut in 1992 for Sri Lanka, and today has done his home town Kandy and his country proud by pocketing both world records as the highest wicket taker in test and one-day cricket. It is a rare feat and 'Murali', as he is known in cricket circles has made history. His record taking 503rd ODI wicket was of Gautam Gambir.

Some of Murali's

famous feats

7 for 155 and 9 for 65

v England, The Oval, 1998

6 for 87 and 7 for 84

v South Africa, Galle, 2000

4 for 77 and 6 for 71

v Pakistan, Peshawar,

1999-00

7 for 30 v India,

Sharjah, 2000

3 for 62 and 8 for 70

v England, Trent Bridge, 2006