The top 5 players with the most wickets in T20 history highlight exceptional bowling talent, showcasing consistency and skill in the shortest format. These players have mastered wicket-taking across leagues and international matches, solidifying their legacy in T20 cricket.

1. Tim Southee

Tim Southee tops the T20 wicket-takers chart with 157 wickets in 123 matches. Entering international cricket at just 19, the right-arm swing bowler impressed with a Player-of-the-Tournament performance in the 2008 Under-19 World Cup. His Test debut against England in Napier saw an immediate impact, with Southee taking 5 wickets and then blasting 77 runs off 40 balls, including nine sixes.

Player	Matches	Overs	Runs	Wickets	Best	Average
Tim Southee	123	446.5	3,635	157	5/18	23.15

2. Shakib Al Hasan

Shakib Al Hasan holds the record for the most wickets in T20 World Cup history, making him one of the most successful bowlers in the tournament. The Bangladeshi all-rounder has consistently delivered exceptional performances on the global stage, using his precise spin and variations to outsmart batters. With over 40 T20 World Cup wickets to his name, Shakib’s impact in limited-overs cricket is remarkable. His experience and skill continue to make him a critical asset for Bangladesh, and he remains a game-changer in the T20 format.

Player	Matches	Overs	Runs	Wickets	Best	Average
Shakib Al Hasan	117	422.3	2,869	140	5/20	20.49

3. Rashid Khan

Rashid Khan, Afghanistan’s star leg-spinner, is one of the leading wicket-takers in T20 World Cup history. Known for his deceptive googlies and quick-arm action, Rashid has become a go-to bowler in high-pressure situations. Across his T20 World Cup career, he’s accumulated an impressive tally of wickets, consistently ranking among the top wicket-takers in the tournament. His outstanding economy rate and ability to take key wickets make him a match-winner and one of the most feared bowlers in T20 cricket.

Player	Matches	Overs	Runs	Wickets	Best	Average
Rashid Khan	85	324.2	1,970	138	5/3	14.27

4. Ish Sodhi

Ish Sodhi, New Zealand’s skilled leg-spinner, has made a significant mark in the T20 World Cup, known for his wicket-taking abilities. With his sharp turn and variations, Sodhi is among the tournament’s top wicket-takers, consistently troubling batsmen in the middle overs. His ability to maintain a tight line while picking up crucial wickets has made him a valuable asset for New Zealand in the T20 format, especially in high-stakes World Cup games.

Player	Matches	Overs	Runs	Wickets	Best	Average
Ish Sodhi	116	392.5	3,142	136	4/28	22.10

5. Mitchell Santner

Mitchell Santner has made a significant impact in T20 World Cup history as one of the leading wicket-takers. Known for his left-arm orthodox spin, he has consistently performed well under pressure, contributing crucial breakthroughs for the New Zealand team. As of now, Santner has taken over 30 wickets in T20 World Cups, showcasing his ability to control the game and take wickets at key moments. His bowling, combined with his sharp fielding and intelligent game sense, has made him a vital asset for New Zealand in T20 formats.