New Delhi, February 9: In a thrilling encounter at the T20 World Cup 2026 held in Colombo, Sri Lankan spinner Wanindu Hasaranga delivered an outstanding performance, leading his team to victory while achieving a significant milestone.
In the match against Ireland, Hasaranga took 3 wickets for just 25 runs in 4 overs. With his third wicket, he became the second most successful bowler in T20 World Cup history, surpassing former Pakistan captain Shahid Afridi, who has 39 wickets. Hasaranga has now claimed 40 wickets in 20 matches, while Afridi ranks third with 39 wickets from 34 matches.
The record for the most wickets in T20 World Cup history belongs to former Bangladesh captain Shakib Al Hasan. He has taken 50 wickets in 41 innings across 43 matches played from 2007 to 2024.
Fourth on the list is Afghanistan’s captain Rashid Khan, who has taken 38 wickets in 24 matches from 2016 to 2026. He has a chance to climb higher in the rankings.
Fifth is Sri Lanka’s former fast bowler Lasith Malinga, who led his team to a T20 World Cup victory. Malinga has also taken 38 wickets in 31 matches.
The T20 World Cup 2026 commenced on March 7 and is still in its early stages. There is a strong possibility that both Wanindu Hasaranga and Rashid Khan can improve their standings. Both have the opportunity to surpass Shakib Al Hasan and become the most successful bowler in T20 World Cup history. Australia’s Adam Zampa is also in contention, sitting sixth with 36 wickets in 21 matches.
