• Home
  • Top Most
  • Top 5 Wicket Takers In T20 International History

Top 5 Wicket-Takers in T20 International History

image-lh5d8dpxRashid Khan's T20 numbers are phenomenal (Twitter)

Cricket is a sport that has captivated the hearts of millions of fans worldwide, and the fast-paced format of T20 internationals has only added to its allure. With the rise of franchise cricket and the proliferation of T20 leagues, the format has become more popular than ever, and the spotlight is on the bowlers who can change the game with their skill and precision.

In this article, we take a closer look at the top five most successful wicket-takers in T20 internationals, a list that includes some of the most iconic names in the sport. From the magnificent swing of a Kiwi superstar to the spin wizardry of an Asian stalwart, these bowlers have left a lasting impact on the game and earned their place in cricketing history. 

Let’s delve into the careers of these remarkable bowlers who have accounted for the most number of scalps in the history of the shortest format of the game.


5. Lasith Malinga – 107 wickets

Lasith Malinga - a name that echoes the glory of a true cricketing legend. The Sri Lankan speedster's unparalleled expertise in limited-overs cricket has left an indelible mark on the sport. Batsmen worldwide have felt the pressure of his fiery bowling and heaved a sigh of relief when he hung up his boots. The unorthodox pacer's signature slinging yorkers, dipped with precision, shattered the defenses of many technically sound batsmen.

image-lh5d9pjhLasith Malinga is a T20I legend (ICC Twitter)

With 107 wickets in 84 matches at an average of 20.79 and a strike rate of 16.8, Malinga stands as the fifth-highest wicket-taker in the history of T20 internationals. His impressive record includes two fifers and one 4-wicket haul. But what sets him apart is his unique distinction of being the only bowler in T20Is to achieve two hat-tricks. Malinga's legacy is one of grit, determination, and unwavering dedication, leaving a lasting impression on the cricketing world that will be cherished for years to come.


4. Ish Sodhi – 118 wickets

Ish Sodhi is among the top spinners the T20I format has seen. With his impeccable spin bowling, the leg-spinner has bamboozled the best batsmen in the world and cemented his position among the elite spinners of the game. Despite being criminally underrated, the Kiwi star’s exceptional record in white-ball formats speaks volumes of his talent.

image-lh5dadg9Ish Sodhi has been New Zealand's bowling mainstay in T20Is for nearly a decade (ICC Twitter)

His stats in T20Is are a testament to his wizardry with the ball, having bagged a staggering 118 scalps in 98 matches at an average of 22.88 and an economy rate of 7.96. As the fourth-highest wicket-taker in T20Is, Sodhi continues to be a vital asset to the New Zealand T20I squad. With his unique skill set and unwavering dedication, the leggie is sure to add more wickets to his already impressive tally. His spin bowling is a treat for any cricket enthusiast and a nightmare for any batsman who dares to face him.


3. Rashid Khan – 129 wickets

Rashid Khan is a name that sends shivers down the spines of any batsman facing him in T20 cricket. At the tender age of 24, he has already attained the status of a legendary cricketer, a feat that very few have achieved. The talismanic leg-spinner from Afghanistan is arguably the most sought-after T20 bowler in the world and has been instrumental in the rise of Afghan cricket. Not only does he restrict the run flow, but he also picks up wickets at an alarming rate, making him a formidable opponent for any team.

image-lh5dbwwbRashid Khan's T20I stats are mind-boggling (ICC Twitter)

The Afghan magician of spin has amassed a staggering 129 wickets in just 48 T20I matches, with an astonishing average of 14.58 and a sensational economy rate of 6.18. His ability to reach the milestone of 100 wickets in a mere 53 matches, beating the previous record set by Lasith Malinga at 76 matches, speaks volumes about his exceptional talent. With age on his side and a long career ahead, Rashid is well on his way to reaching the pinnacle of the sport. He is a player to watch out for and an inspiration for aspiring cricketers everywhere. The legendary spinner’s legacy is one of greatness, and skill, and he is sure to go down in history as one of the greatest T20 bowlers of all time.


2. Tim Southee – 134 wickets

New Zealand cricket has been blessed with an array of game-changing talents over the years, but few can match the skill and mastery of Tim Southee. The Blackcaps veteran has dazzled on the international stage, dismantling top-tier batting line-ups with ease. With the new cherry in his hand, Southee is a weapon of mass destruction, using his prodigious swing and seam to leave batsmen befuddled and bewildered.

image-lh5dd7pfTim Southee is renowned his artistry with the new ball (Twitter)

Opposing batsmen are well aware of the dangers of facing Southee in the first over, as he is one of the most prolific wicket-takers in this crucial period. The 34-year-old has a staggering ten wickets to his name in the opening over, setting the tone for the Kiwis with deadly accuracy. In 107 T20I appearances, Southee has claimed an impressive 134 scalps at a remarkable average of 23.72 and an economy rate of 8.16. He also boasts of a lone five-wicket haul, which represents his personal best figures of 5/18.


1. Shakib Al Hasan – 136 wickets

Shakib Al Hasan is an undisputed legend, whose remarkable skills and legacy have earned him the title of the greatest cricketer to ever represent the Bangladesh national team. A true all-rounder, his unrivaled consistency and outstanding performance in the game is simply awe-inspiring. The southpaw's all-round prowess is a force to be reckoned with, with his batting heroics being nothing short of spectacular. However, it is his bowling wizardry that truly cements his status as an all-rounder extraordinaire.

image-lh5de37lShakib al Hasan recently went past Southee to grab the top spot in the list 

In his illustrious career spanning 115 matches in the shortest format of the game, Shakib has carved out a niche for himself as a master of the craft, amassing a staggering 136 wickets at a jaw-dropping average of 20.78 and an enviable economy rate of 6.80. The southpaw's accomplishments don't end there - he boasts of two T20I wicket-hauls and an incredible five four-wicket hauls, cementing his position as the highest wicket-taker in T20Is.