T20 cricket is often seen as a batter’s paradise, but some bowlers have risen above the challenge to become legends in this fast-paced format. These bowlers have not only taken the most wickets in T20I cricket but also played major roles in their teams’ success through match-winning spells.
List of Top 5 Legendary Bowlers with the Most Wickets in T20I Cricket History
5. Mustafizur Rahman (Bangladesh)
When Mustafizur Rahman made his debut for Bangladesh, few had seen such a bowler before. With his unique off-cutters, sharp slower balls, and natural left-arm angle, Mustafizur became a nightmare for batters worldwide, especially in the race for Most Wickets in T20I Cricket. Known as “The Fizz,” he brought something fresh to the bowling scene.
He rose to fame quickly with his unpredictable bowling and ability to take wickets at any stage of the innings, making him one of the players with the Most Wickets in T20I Cricket. Whether in the powerplay or the death overs, Mustafizur remained effective and consistent. One of his most iconic performances came when he destroyed a batting line-up with his unbelievable 6/10, making it one of the best bowling figures in T20I history.
Despite injuries, Mustafizur has fought back to remain a vital part of Bangladesh’s T20 setup. His calm demeanor and clever variations have helped him become one of the highest wicket-takers in the format.
| Matches | Wickets Taken | Best Bowling | 5-Wicket Hauls |
| 106 | 132 | 6/10 | 2 |
4. Ish Sodhi (New Zealand)
Ish Sodhi might not always grab headlines, but his impact on Most Wickets in T20I Cricket is undeniable. The tall leg-spinner from New Zealand has quietly built a reputation as one of the most effective T20 bowlers in the world. He relies on quick leg-spin, tricky googlies, and exceptional control over flight and turn.
Sodhi made his T20I debut in 2014 and has been a regular part of New Zealand’s white-ball success. His strength lies in bowling during the middle overs, where he often breaks partnerships and stops the scoring rate. His career-best spell of 4/28 is a proof of how dangerous he can be when in rhythm.
Even without a 5-wicket haul in his T20I career so far, Sodhi’s consistency and wicket-taking ability have earned him a spot in the top five T20I wicket-takers.
| Matches | Wickets Taken | Best Bowling | 5-Wicket Hauls |
| 124 | 144 | 4/28 | 0 |
3. Shakib Al Hasan (Bangladesh)
Shakib Al Hasan is more than just a bowler – he’s an all-round cricketing genius. However, his bowling in T20Is, where he ranks among the players with the Most Wickets in T20I Cricket, has been particularly impressive. A left-arm spinner with incredible accuracy and sharp mind, Shakib knows how to out-think even the best batters.
Over his long career, he has delivered under pressure time and again, especially during crucial moments in T20 World Cups and high-stakes games. Shakib’s ability to maintain a low economy while also picking up wickets makes him a rare asset in this format. His best bowling figures of 5/20 show his knack for delivering big spells when it matters most.
Bangladesh has often relied on Shakib to break partnerships or keep the run rate in control – and he has delivered consistently. He also holds the record for the most 4-wicket hauls by a spinner in T20Is.
| Matches | Wickets Taken | Best Bowling | 5-Wicket Hauls |
| 129 | 149 | 5/20 | 2 |
2. Rashid Khan (Afghanistan)
When Rashid Khan steps onto the field, batters know they’re in for a tough challenge. Arguably the most successful and feared leg-spinner in T20 cricket, Rashid has changed the way spinners are viewed in this aggressive format, making him a key figure in the race for Most Wickets in T20I Cricket.
He made his T20I debut in 2015, and within a few years, became a global star. With an economy of just over 6 and an average under 14, Rashid is a statistical wonder in Most Wickets in T20I Cricket. His signature googlies, mixed with unbelievable accuracy and a fast arm action, have left many top-order batters clueless.
Rashid’s best bowling spell of 5/3 is not only magical but a reminder of how destructive he can be on his day. Despite playing fewer matches than some of the others on this list, his 161 wickets speak volumes of his dominance.
He is also the fastest bowler to 100 wickets in T20Is, and a match-winner in every sense of the word.
| Matches | Wickets Taken | Best Bowling | 5-Wicket Hauls |
| 96 | 161 | 5/3 | 2 |
1. Tim Southee (New Zealand)
Tim Southee is one of the greatest fast bowlers in the history of T20 cricket, holding a prominent place in the record books for Most Wickets in T20I Cricket. With his traditional outswingers, clever variations, and pinpoint yorkers, Southee has adapted beautifully to the demands of T20Is over the years.
Making his T20I debut way back in 2008, Southee has grown into a leader and a mainstay in the New Zealand bowling attack. He holds the record for Most Wickets in T20I Cricket, with 164 scalps. His best performance – 5/18 – showcases his skill in dismantling opponents even in batting-friendly conditions.
Southee is known for taking early breakthroughs with the new ball and coming back at the death to bowl tight overs. His ability to stay fit and effective over such a long period is a big reason for his success in this demanding format.
| Matches | Wickets Taken | Best Bowling | 5-Wicket Hauls |
| 126 | 164 | 5/18 | 2 |
READ MORE: