In the fast-paced world of T20 cricket, where every ball counts and the margin for error is slim, bowlers who consistently take wickets are like gold dust for their teams. Over the years, the T20 format has witnessed some remarkable bowling performances, and several bowlers have etched their names in history as the highest wicket-takers in international T20 cricket.
10 Highest Wicket Takers in T20 Cricket (International)
| Player | Span | Mat | Inns | Wkts | Ave | Econ |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| TG Southee (NZ) | 2008-2023 | 114 | 112 | 144 | 23.62 | 8.19 |
| Shakib Al Hasan (BAN) | 2006-2023 | 117 | 115 | 140 | 20.49 | 6.79 |
| Rashid Khan (AFG/ICC) | 2015-2023 | 82 | 82 | 130 | 14.80 | 6.16 |
| IS Sodhi (NZ) | 2014-2023 | 102 | 99 | 126 | 22.39 | 7.99 |
| SL Malinga (SL) | 2006-2020 | 84 | 83 | 107 | 20.79 | 7.42 |
| Shadab Khan (PAK) | 2017-2023 | 92 | 88 | 104 | 22.12 | 7.07 |
| Mustafizur Rahman (BAN) | 2015-2023 | 85 | 84 | 103 | 22.27 | 7.57 |
| MJ Santner (NZ) | 2015-2023 | 90 | 89 | 100 | 22.06 | 7.08 |
| MR Adair (IRE) | 2019-2023 | 71 | 71 | 98 | 19.59 | 7.68 |
| Shahid Afridi (ICC/PAK) | 2006-2018 | 99 | 97 | 98 | 24.44 | 6.63 |
Let’s take a look at these exceptional talents who have left a significant mark on the game.
1. Shahid Afridi (Pakistan)
- Wickets: 98
- Span: 2006-2018
Shahid Afridi, the flamboyant Pakistani all-rounder. He is not only known for his explosive batting but also for his ability to pick up crucial wickets. Afridi’s leg-spin bamboozled many batsmen throughout his T20 career, and he remains the highest wicket-taker in international T20 cricket for Pakistan.
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2. Rashid Khan (Afghanistan/ICC)
- Wickets: 130
- Span: 2015-2023
Rashid Khan, the Afghan sensation, burst onto the T20 scene with his extraordinary leg-spin skills. He quickly rose through the ranks to become one of the most sought-after T20 bowlers in the world. Rashid’s remarkable ability to spin the ball both ways and consistently pick up wickets makes him a force to be reckoned with.
3. Shakib Al Hasan (Bangladesh)
- Wickets: 140
- Span: 2006-2023
Shakib Al Hasan, the Bangladeshi all-rounder, is a true match-winner. Not only does he contribute with the bat and ball. But he also boasts an impressive wicket tally in international T20 cricket. Shakib’s accuracy and ability to bowl in various phases of the game make him one of the finest all-rounders in the format.
4. Tim Southee (New Zealand)
- Wickets: 144
- Span: 2008-2023
Tim Southee, the Kiwi pacer, has been a cornerstone of New Zealand’s T20 bowling attack. With his ability to swing the ball at pace and deliver deadly yorkers, Southee has consistently troubled batsmen in the shortest format. His knack for taking wickets has been crucial to his team’s success.
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5. Ish Sodhi (New Zealand)
- Wickets: 126
- Span: 2014-2023
Another New Zealander on the list is Ish Sodhi, the leg-spinner known for his guile and variations. Sodhi’s ability to fox batsmen with his spin and flight has earned him a respectable place among the highest wicket-takers in international T20 cricket.
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These bowlers have not only provided their teams with wickets but have also played pivotal roles in their respective nations’ T20 successes. They have consistently showcased their skills, adapting to various conditions and oppositions.
As T20 cricket continues to evolve, these remarkable bowlers serve as an inspiration to the new generation. Proving that skill, accuracy, and consistency can make a world of difference in the shortest format of the game. Their legacies as the highest wicket-takers in international T20 cricket are etched in cricketing history, and their contributions will be celebrated for years to come.