![Neetu David, Deepti Sharma and Sophie Ecclestone. [Source - ICC/x.com]](https://onecricketnews.akamaized.net/parth-editor/oc-dashboard/news-images-prod/1762162033864_Neetu_Deepti_Sophie_ICC.jpg?type=hq)
Neetu David, Deepti Sharma and Sophie Ecclestone. [Source - ICC/x.com]
Cricket’s grandest stage often reveals the true match-winners, and the Women’s World Cup has showcased some extraordinary bowling brilliance. Across different editions, several bowlers have risen to the occasion, dismantling batting orders with precision, skill, and consistency when their teams needed them most.
In every condition, these bowlers have left an unforgettable mark by claiming incredible wicket hauls in a single tournament. Their performances not only shaped matches but also cemented their legacies in World Cup history. Here’s a look at the players who topped the charts for most wickets in one edition.
4. Neetu David (India) – 20 wickets, 2005 Women’s World Cup
India’s star spinner Neetu David was sensational during the 2005 World Cup in South Africa. With her crafty slow left-arm spin, she bamboozled batters throughout the tournament, playing a key role in India’s historic run to the final. In eight matches, Neetu claimed 20 wickets at a stunning average of 8.35 and a strike rate of 19.7, an exceptional effort that remains one of the finest bowling performances in Women’s World Cup history.
4. Shubhangi Kulkarni (India) – 20 wickets, 1982 Women’s World Cup
In the 1982 Women’s World Cup held in New Zealand, India’s Shubhangi Kulkarni delivered a brilliant bowling campaign that stood out despite the team not reaching the final. The leg-spinner consistently troubled opponents, finishing with 20 wickets at an impressive average of 11.70 and a strike rate of 24.25. Kulkarni’s skill, accuracy, and relentless consistency made her one of the tournament’s brightest stars and a highlight for India.
3. Sophie Ecclestone (England) – 21 wickets, 2022 Women’s World Cup
Number three in the list is England’s Sophie Ecclestone showcased her brilliance as the tournament’s leading wicket-taker, in the 2022 Women’s World Cup. The left-arm orthodox spinner claimed 21 wickets at an average of 15.61, displaying superb control and guile. Her sensational 6-for in the semi-final against South Africa powered England into the final, highlighting her dominance throughout the campaign.
2. Deepti Sharma (India) – 22 wickets, 2025 Women’s World Cup
Deepti Sharma had a historic 2025 edition as her all-round brilliance propelled India to their maiden title. The off-spinner was phenomenal with the ball, claiming 22 wickets in 9 matches, the second-best bowling performance in World Cup history. Her control, variation, and temperament stood out throughout the tournament, culminating in a stunning five-wicket haul in the final that sealed India’s historic triumph and showcased her match-winning ability.
2. Jackie Lord (New Zealand) – 22 wickets, 1982 Women’s World Cup
In the 1982 Women’s World Cup at home, New Zealand’s Jackie Lord etched her name in history with a record-breaking 22 wickets, the joint second-highest tally in a single edition of the tournament till date. A pioneering leg-spinner, Lord’s skill and accuracy were instrumental in shaping the women’s game during its formative years. Her unforgettable 6-wicket haul defending just 81 against India became a timeless highlight, remembered fondly by fans for generations.
1. Lyn Fullston (Australia) – 23 wickets, 1982 Women’s World Cup
Making her debut in the 1982 Women’s World Cup, Lyn Fullston delivered a record-breaking performance that still stands unmatched. The left-arm spinner claimed 23 wickets at an average of 12, including a four-for and a five-for, guiding Australia to their second consecutive title. Her remarkable consistency and impact made her the tournament’s standout bowler and a true trailblazer of women’s cricket, especially in Australia.
