The ICC Men’s T20 World Cup 2026 is set to take place in India and Sri Lanka from February 7 to March 8. This highly anticipated tournament will mark the 10th edition of the prestigious event, with a total of 55 games scheduled to be played across eight venues – five in India and three in Sri Lanka.
The defending champions of the T20 World Cup are co-hosts India, who emerged victorious in the 2024 edition held in the United States and the West Indies by defeating South Africa in a thrilling final in Barbados. Team India had previously clinched the title in the inaugural edition held in South Africa in 2007. Apart from India, West Indies (2012 & 2016) and England (2010 & 2022) are the only other nations to have won the tournament twice.
Bowlers have played a crucial role in shaping the outcomes of matches in the Men’s T20 World Cup. In this article, we will delve into the top wicket-takers in the history of the ICC event.
### Rashid Khan (37 wickets)
Afghanistan’s skipper Rashid Khan occupies the fifth spot on the list of leading wicket-takers in the T20 World Cup. In 23 matches, the talented leg-spinner has scalped 37 wickets at an impressive average of 14.89 and an economy rate of 6.30, including three four-wicket hauls. Rashid’s standout performance came against Scotland in Sharjah in 2021 when he recorded figures of 4-9.
### Wanindu Hasaranga (37 wickets)
Sri Lankan leg-spinner Wanindu Hasaranga shares the fifth position with Rashid Khan, having also claimed 37 wickets in the T20 World Cup. In 19 matches, Hasaranga has maintained an average of 11.72 and an economy rate of 6. His best figures of 3-8 were registered against UAE in Geelong in 2022.
### Lasith Malinga (38 wickets)
Former Sri Lankan fast bowler Lasith Malinga secures the third spot on the list of top wicket-takers in the ICC event. Malinga, who led Sri Lanka to victory in the 2014 T20 World Cup, picked up 38 wickets in 31 matches at an average of 20.07 and an economy rate of 7.43. His best bowling performance of 5-31 came against England in Pallekele in 2012.
### Shahid Afridi (39 wickets)
Former Pakistan all-rounder Shahid Afridi claims the second position on the list with 39 wickets in 34 matches. Afridi maintained an average of 23.25 and an economy rate of 6.71. His best figures of 4-11 were recorded against Netherlands at Lord’s in 2009.
### Shakib Al Hasan (50 wickets)
Bangladesh’s veteran all-rounder Shakib Al Hasan leads the pack as the highest wicket-taker in the T20 World Cup. With 50 wickets in 43 matches, Shakib has an average of 20.12 and an economy rate of 6.86. His best figures of 4-9 came against Papua New Guinea in Al Amerat in 2021.
As we eagerly await the ICC Men’s T20 World Cup 2026, these bowlers are expected to play pivotal roles for their respective teams and strive to add to their impressive wicket-taking records in the tournament. Shakib Al Hasan, the renowned Bangladeshi all-rounder, has been a consistent performer in T20 cricket over the years. In the 2021 edition of the tournament, Shakib showcased his bowling prowess by picking up 11 wickets in six matches. His ability to pick up crucial wickets at key moments played a significant role in his team’s success.
In comparison, in the 2016 edition of the tournament, Shakib picked up 10 wickets in seven matches, with six innings bowled. Despite playing one less match than in 2021, Shakib’s performance in 2016 was equally impressive. His ability to maintain consistency over the course of the tournament highlighted his skill and experience as a bowler.
Shakib’s success with the ball in both editions of the tournament is a testament to his skill and adaptability as a cricketer. His ability to read the game situation and deliver under pressure has made him a valuable asset for any team he represents.
As Shakib continues to excel in T20 cricket, fans can expect more stellar performances from him in future editions of the tournament. His ability to contribute with both bat and ball makes him a key player in any team’s lineup, and his performances in 2021 and 2016 are a testament to his skill and talent as a cricketer.
