The T20 World Cup has been a batting paradise for Indian cricketers, but when it comes to bowling, the story is starkly different. In the all-time list of top wicket-takers across 10 editions of the tournament, not a single Indian bowler cracks the top 10. This revelation comes as the 2026 edition unfolds in India and Sri Lanka, highlighting a persistent gap in India’s pace and spin arsenals on the biggest stage.
Bangladesh’s Shakib Al Hasan reigns supreme with 50 wickets in 43 matches since 2007, showcasing his all-round mastery. Sri Lanka’s Wanindu Hasaranga follows closely with 40 wickets in just 20 outings from 2021 to 2026, his leg-spin wreaking havoc. Pakistan’s legendary Shahid Afridi sits third with 39 scalps in 34 games, his explosive leg-spin a nightmare for batters.
Afghanistan’s Rashid Khan occupies fourth place with 38 wickets in 24 matches since 2016, proving mystery spin’s dominance. Sharing fifth is Sri Lanka’s Lasith Malinga, the tournament’s greatest fast bowler, with 38 wickets in 31 matches, leading his side to glory. Australia’s Adam Zampa lurks at sixth with 36 wickets in 21 games, poised to climb higher in 2026.
Pakistan’s Saeed Ajmal (36 wickets in 23 matches), New Zealand’s Tim Southee (36 in 25), South Africa’s Anrich Nortje (35 in 19), and Sri Lanka’s Ajantha Mendis (35 in 21) round out the top 10. Notably, all top five spots are held by Asian bowlers, but none from India or South Asian powerhouses beyond Bangladesh, Sri Lanka, Pakistan, and Afghanistan.
India’s Ravichandran Ashwin leads his nation’s efforts with 32 wickets in 24 matches, ranking 13th overall. Fast-rising pacer Arshdeep Singh, currently 19th with 29 wickets in 15 games, has the firepower to break into the top 10 and challenge for top five if he shines in ongoing and future tournaments. Zampa and Nortje also eye upward mobility.
This disparity underscores India’s historical reliance on batting firepower. As the T20 World Cup evolves, Arshdeep’s slingy action and death-over skills could rewrite history, bringing India into the elite bowling conversation.