Most Wickets in T20 World Cup History (Updated Stats)

The ICC T20 World Cup has produced some of the most electrifying moments in cricket history. While batters often grab headlines with explosive innings, bowlers have consistently played a decisive role in shaping tournament outcomes. From tight spells to match-winning hat-tricks, wicket-takers have defined the success of many teams in the ICC T20 World Cup.

ICC T20 World Cup – A Bowler’s Battlefield

The ICC T20 World Cup is played in high-pressure conditions where every over matters. With only 20 overs per side, bowlers must:

• Control run flow
• Break partnerships
• Execute yorkers and slower balls perfectly
• Handle powerplay and death overs

Over the years, only a few elite bowlers have consistently mastered these skills.

Top 10 Bowlers with Most Wickets in T20 World Cup History

Below is the updated list of the leading wicket-takers in T20 World Cup history:

Breakdown of the Top Performers

1️. Shakib Al Hasan – The All-Round King

Shakib leads the wicket charts in T20 World Cup history. What makes him special is:

• Consistency across multiple editions
• Excellent control in the middle overs
• Ability to break partnerships

His best bowling figures of 4/9 showcase his dominance with left-arm spin. An economy rate under 7 in T20 cricket is exceptional.

2️. Shahid Afridi – The Big Match Performer

Afridi was Pakistan’s go-to wicket-taker. His aggressive leg-spin and ability to perform in knockout games helped him climb high in the rankings.

• Best figures: 4/11
• Controlled economy in crucial matches
• Match-winning spells in the semifinals and finals

3️. Lasith Malinga – The Yorker Specialist

Malinga’s slingy action made him deadly at the death. His five-wicket haul (5/31) remains one of the best fast-bowling performances in T20 World Cup history.

4.  Wanindu Hasaranga – The Modern-Day Match Winner

Hasaranga has one of the best economy rates among leading wicket-takers. His variations and googlies have troubled top batters worldwide.

5️. Ajantha Mendis – Record-Breaking Spell

Mendis holds one of the best bowling figures in T20 World Cup history, 6/8, a spell that stunned Zimbabwe and remains among the most economically destructive performances.

Best Bowling Figures in T20 World Cup History

Here are some of the most remarkable spells ever recorded:

These performances didn’t just win matches  they shifted tournament momentum.

Why Economy Rate Matters in the T20 World Cup

In T20 cricket, the economy rate is just as important as wickets.

• Under 6.5 → Elite control
• 6.5–7.5 → Very good
• 7.5–8.5 → Acceptable
• Above 9 → Expensive

Bowlers like Shakib, Hasaranga, and Rashid Khan maintained strong economy rates while consistently taking wickets, a rare combination.

Fast Bowlers vs Spinners in the T20 World Cup

Interestingly:

• Spinners dominate the top wicket charts
• Middle overs produce most wickets
• Death-over specialists shine in knockout matches

Spinners have historically thrived in slower-paced pitches and under pressure.

Evolution of Wicket-Taking Trends

2007–2012 Era

• Dominated by mystery spinners
• Low-scoring games

2014–2016 Era

• Balanced bowling attacks
• More death-over specialists

2021–2024 Era

• Wrist-spinners rising
• Increased use of variations

The role of analytics and matchups has significantly influenced bowling strategies.

Impact of These Bowlers on Their Teams

These players weren’t just wicket-takers, they were tournament changers:

• Broke opening partnerships
• Delivered in semifinals & finals
• Controlled run rate under pressure
• Shifted momentum in powerplays

Many of them also helped their teams reach finals or win championships.

Key Records Related to Most Wickets in the T20 World Cup

• Most wickets overall – Shakib Al Hasan
• Best bowling figures – Ajantha Mendis (6/8)
• Best death-over spell – Umar Gul (5/6)
• Best economy among top bowlers – Wanindu Hasaranga

FAQs –