Top 5 bowlers with most wickets in World Cup history

Mitchell Starc, one of the most prolific bowlers in the history of white-ball cricket, recently achieved a monumental milestone during the AUS vs BAN T20 World Cup 2024 Super 8 match. By conceding only 21 runs in his 4 overs and taking a crucial wicket, Starc surpassed former Sri Lanka pacer Lasith Malinga to become the bowler with the most wickets in T20 and ODI World Cups combined.

The Journey to the Milestone

Mitchell Starc’s journey to becoming the highest wicket-taker in World Cup history is a testament to his hard work and dedication. Debuting in the 2015 ICC Cricket World Cup, Starc quickly made a name for himself with his lethal yorkers and sharp pace.

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Most wickets in World Cup history (ODI+T20I)

1. Mitchell Starc: The Prolific Bowler

Mitchell Starc tops the list of bowlers with most wickets in World Cup history (ODI and T20), with a total of 95 wickets (65 in ODIs and 30 in T20s).His success can be attributed to his exceptional bowling techniques and strengths. His ability to bowl fast and accurate yorkers, combined with his skill in swinging the ball both ways, makes him a formidable opponent.

Starc’s adaptability allows him to excel in different formats, whether it’s the longer spells of ODIs or the quick bursts required in T20s. His consistency and ability to deliver under pressure have been key to his record-breaking performances.

2. Lasith Malinga: A Legend of the Game

Sri Lanka’s Lasith Malinga played a total of 60 matches in T20 and ODI World Cups, taking 94 wickets with a remarkable average of 21.74. Lasith Malinga, who took 94 wickets (56 in ODIs and 38 in T20s).

Lasith Malinga’s impact on cricket is undeniable. Known for his unique round-arm action and pinpoint accuracy, Malinga was a match-winner for Sri Lanka. His ability to deliver toe-crushing yorkers at will made him a nightmare for batters. Malinga’s legacy includes numerous match-winning performances and a lasting influence on future generations of bowlers.

3. Shakib Al Hasan: Bangladesh’s Bowling Maestro

Shakib Al Hasan, with 92 World Cup wickets, is another legend in the making. His versatility as an all-rounder has been crucial for Bangladesh. Shakib’s ability to take wickets consistently in both ODIs and T20s, along with his valuable contributions with the bat, makes him a key player for his team. His journey from a promising youngster to a world-class cricketer is truly inspiring.

4. Trent Boult: New Zealand’s Ace Pacer

New Zealand’s Trent Boult with 87 wickets (53 in ODIs and 34 in T20s). He has been a vital part of New Zealand’s bowling attack, especially in World Cups. Known for his ability to swing the ball both ways at high speed, Boult has troubled many top-order batters. His performances in the 2015 and 2019 World Cups were instrumental in New Zealand reaching the finals. Boult’s consistency and wicket-taking ability make him one of the best bowlers in modern cricket.

5. Muttiah Muralitharan: The Spin Wizard

Muttiah Muralitharan, often referred to as the Spin Wizard, is widely regarded as one of the greatest bowlers in the history of cricket. Over the course of his career, he took 68 wickets in ODI World Cups and 11 in T20 World Cups. His ability to consistently perform on the biggest stage earned him a reputation as a formidable opponent. Notable moments include his crucial spells in the 1996 World Cup and his continued dominance in subsequent tournaments.

Most wickets in World Cup history

Player	Team	Matches	Wickets	Average	ODI/T20I
Mitchell Starc	Australia	52*	95	21.11	65/30
Lasith Malinga	Sri Lanka	60	94	21.74	56/38
Shakib Al Hasan	Bangladesh	77*	92	26.96	43/49
Trent Boult	New Zealand	47	87	20.44	53/34
Muthiah Muralidharan	Sri Lanka	49	79	19.54	68/11