Waqar Younis: The Only Bowler with Three Back-to-Back 5-Wicket Hauls in ODIs

A Rare Feat of Fast-Bowling Domination

While ODI records are filled with standout performances, one statistic from the late 1990s and early 2000s remains astonishingly rare: three consecutive five-wicket hauls in ODIs, all achieved by Waqar Younis, and by no one else.

On Reddit’s r/Cricket, fans recently reminded each other:

“There were 13 instances in ODIs that a bowler took 2 or more consecutive 5-wicket hauls. Three of them were taken by Waqar. No other player did it more than twice.”

That stat emphasizes just how consistently lethal Waqar was—maintaining spot-on swing, pace, and hostility over multiple matches.

Stat Breakdown

No other bowler in history has matched his streak—making it an exclusive and seldom-celebrated record.

Why This Feat Matters

• Sustained excellence: Taking a single five-for is impressive; doing it in three straight ODIs shows remarkable dominance.
• Game-changing impact: Five-wicket hauls often determine match outcomes. Waqar did this again and again, reflecting his match-winning quality.
• Peak-era brilliance: Waqar rose to prominence in an era filled with legendary fast bowlers—yet he stood out even among peers.

Modern Comparison

The closest contenders have only two consecutive five-fors. No current bowler has even matched that—making Waqar’s record a statistical fortress unlikely to be breached anytime soon.