Indian batsmen have long ruled T20 World Cup roosts—Kohli at the summit, Sharma chasing—but bowlers? The top 10 all-time list is a shutout. As the 10th edition captivates fans in India and Sri Lanka, this oversight spotlights a critical area for improvement in the sport’s shortest format.
Leading the pack is Shakib Al Hasan (50 wickets, 43 matches, 2007-2024), Bangladesh’s talisman. Wanindu Hasaranga (40/20, 2021-2026) dazzles at two. Shahid Afridi (39/34) thrills from three. Rashid Khan (38/24, 2016-2026) mystifies at four, matched by Lasith Malinga’s 38/31 at five.
Sixth through tenth: Adam Zampa (36/21), Saeed Ajmal (36/23), Tim Southee (36/25), Anrich Nortje (35/19), Ajantha Mendis (35/21). Top five Asian-heavy, no Indians. Ashwin’s 32/24 lands him 13th as India’s frontrunner.
Enter Arshdeep Singh: 29 wickets in 15 matches, 19th overall. His left-arm pace, swing, and yorkers position him perfectly for a top-10 assault, even top-five glory in 2026. Zampa and Nortje share similar ambitions.
Since 2007’s South African launch, T20 WC has evolved, favoring adaptable bowlers. India’s batting dominance masked bowling frailties, but Arshdeep signals change. With pinpoint accuracy and ice-cool nerves, he embodies hope. As the tournament progresses, his performances could propel India into history’s elite, balancing the scales against batting giants.