Record-breaker Permaul sets sight on 700 First-Class wickets

Veerasammy Permaul, the wily Guyana Harpy Eagles left-arm spinner, has scripted another chapter in his storied career.

Over the weekend, in a thrilling round-three day/night clash against the West Indies Academy in the 2025 West Indies Four-Day Championship, Permaul reached yet another milestone: 650 First-Class wickets.

His mesmerising spell of 6-75 from 29 overs, his 34th five-wicket haul, proved pivotal, spinning the Eagles to crucial first-innings points in a dramatic encounter.

But for Permaul, this milestone is not a destination, but a stepping stone. He now has 652 wickets.

With the Harpy Eagles still having four matches left in the season, his gaze is firmly fixed on a higher summit: 700 First-Class wickets.

“That is one of the goals moving forward,” Permaul shared with News Room Sport.

His voice, calm and measured, betrayed the burning ambition within.

“At the same time, it’s cricket, and anything can happen. I will just go and continue what I’ve done over the years, put the ball in the right areas, and show that once you remain consistent as a bowler, you can reap rewards.”

The quiet determination, in his words, echoes a career built on relentless perseverance.

Of his 652 wickets, an astounding 574 have come while representing Guyana, a testament to his unwavering commitment to his team and his nation.

The rest are a testament to his prowess on the international stage, earned in Tests, tour matches, and while representing the West Indies ‘A’ team.

Permaul’s journey has been one of consistent excellence.

In March 2023, he cemented his place in history, overtaking Jamaican Nikita Miller’s record of 511 wickets to become the leading wicket-taker in Regional First-Class cricket.

From his debut against the Windward Islands in Grenada in January 2007, the 35-year-old has been a force to be reckoned with.

“I want to thank God for playing so long and getting to achieve this milestone,” Permaul reflected.

“It is a good feeling to get wickets, and more so, to get wickets for Guyana.”

As he continues his relentless pursuit of 700 wickets, one thing is certain: Veerasammy Permaul’s legacy as a true legend of West Indies cricket is already secured.