Most Wickets in T20 World Cup
Bangladesh all-rounder Shakib Al Hasan holds the record for the most wickets in t20 world cup, taking 47 in 36 matches with an average of 18.63 and an economy rate of 6.78. He has recorded three four-wicket hauls, including a standout performance of 4/9 against Papua New Guinea in 2021.
In second place is former Pakistan all-rounder Shahid Afridi, who has 39 wickets in 34 matches, with an economy rate of 6.71. Sri Lanka’s legendary fast bowler, Lasith Malinga, ranks third, claiming 38 wickets in 31 matches at an economy rate of 7.43. Malinga’s highlight was his 5/31 against England in 2012.
As we look forward to T20 World Cup 2024, let’s review the top 10 bowlers with most wickets in T20 world cup
Most Wickets in T20 World Cup (2007 – 2022)
| Rank | Player | Nation | Matches | Wickets | Strike Rate |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| 1 | Shakib Al Hasan | Bangladesh | 36 | 47 | 16.48 |
| 2 | Shahid Afridi | Pakistan | 34 | 39 | 20.76 |
| 3 | Lasith Malinga | Sri Lanka | 31 | 38 | 16.21 |
| 4 | Saeed Ajmal | Pakistan | 23 | 36 | 14.88 |
| 5 | Ajantha Mendis | Sri Lanka | 21 | 35 | 13.45 |
| 6 | Umar Gul | Pakistan | 24 | 35 | 14.17 |
| 7 | Ravichandran Ashwin | India | 24 | 32 | 15.93 |
| 8 | Wanindu Hasaranga | Sri Lanka | 16 | 31 | 11.80 |
| 9 | Dale Steyn | South Africa | 23 | 30 | 16.63 |
| 10 | Stuart Broad | England | 26 | 30 | 17.36 |
ALSO READ: Top 10 Fastest Double Centuries in ODI Cricket
Shakib Al Hasan – 47 Wickets
Shakib Al Hasan is renowned for his impressive spin bowling and various techniques. He has taken 47 wickets in 36 T20 World Cup matches. His ability to control the run rate and take key wickets at crucial moments makes him essential for Bangladesh’s success. Shakib’s accuracy and strategy establish him as the topper in the list of bowlers most wickets in T20 World Cup.
Shahid Afridi – 39 Wickets
Shahid “Boom Boom” Afridi is a well-known cricketer from Pakistan and ranks second in the list of most wickets in T20 World Cup history. He has taken an impressive 39 wickets in just 34 matches. Afridi is famous for his unique leg-spin bowling, which makes it difficult for batsmen to predict his deliveries.
His playing style is energetic and aggressive, which not only helps his team but also entertains the fans. Afridi’s ability to take crucial wickets at important moments in the game has earned him a special place in the hearts of cricket lovers. His exciting performances and big-hitting skills have made him a fan favorite, both in Pakistan and around the world.
Lasith Malinga – 38 Wickets
Lasith “Slinger” Malinga is famous for his unique bowling style, effective slower balls, and deadly yorkers. He has taken 38 wickets in 31 T20 World Cup matches and was key in Sri Lanka’s win in the 2014 T20 World Cup.
Saeed Ajmal – 36 Wickets
Saeed Ajmal, known for his doosra and control, took 36 wickets in 23 T20 World Cup matches before retiring in 2014. His ability to trick batters with variations made him a consistent wicket-taker for Pakistan.
Ajantha Mendis – 35 Wickets
Ajantha Mendis, known for his unconventional bowling and various deliveries, secured 35 wickets in just 21 T20 World Cup matches, making him a top competitor.
ALSO READ: Top 5 Best Jiu-Jitsu Fighters in the UFC
Leading Wicket-Takers by T20 World Cup Edition
| T20 World Cup Edition | Highest Wicket-Taker | Wickets |
|---|---|---|
| 2007 | Umar Gul | 13 |
| 2009 | Umar Gul | 13 |
| 2010 | Dirk Nannes | 14 |
| 2012 | Ajantha Mendis | 15 |
| 2014 | Imran Tahir & Ahsan Malik | 12 |
| 2016 | Mohammad Nabi | 12 |
| 2021 | Wanindu Hasaranga | 16 |
| 2022 | Wanindu Hasaranga | 15 |
ALSO READ: AB de Villiers vs Brian Lara: Stats Comparison
Highlights of Key Performers
Umar Gul – 13 Wickets in 2007 & 2009
Umar Gul excelled in the 2007 ICC T20 World Cup, helping lead Pakistan to the final with 13 wickets. In the final, he took 3/28, although Pakistan lost. He maintained his form in the 2009 edition, again taking 13 wickets and contributing to Pakistan’s championship win.
Dirk Nannes – 14 Wickets in 2010
Dirk Nannes had his best showing in the 2010 T20 World Cup, becoming the top wicket-taker with 14 wickets. His standout performance was 4/18 against Bangladesh. Despite a short T20 career, he made a significant impact.
Ajantha Mendis – 15 Wickets in 2012
In 2012, Ajantha Mendis was the leading wicket-taker with 15 wickets, including impressive figures of 6/8 against Zimbabwe. His performance in the final against the West Indies was also notable, taking 4/12.
Imran Tahir & Ahsan Malik – 12 Wickets Each in 2014
Imran Tahir and Ahsan Malik were joint top wicket-takers in 2014, each with 12 wickets. Tahir had a great 4/21 against the Netherlands, while Malik took 5/19 against South Africa.
Mohammad Nabi – 12 Wickets in 2016
Mohammad Nabi was the top wicket-taker in 2016 with 12 wickets, narrowly beating his teammate Rashid Khan. Despite Afghanistan not progressing beyond the group stages, Nabi’s bowling stood out.
Wanindu Hasaranga – 16 & 15 Wickets in 2021 & 2022
Wanindu Hasaranga shined in the 2021 T20 World Cup, taking 16 wickets and achieving 3/20 against South Africa. He continued his excellent form in 2022, leading again with 15 wickets, including a standout 3/8 against the UAE.
READ MORE:
