Who has taken the most wickets in a single ODI World Cup?
Let’s get to the facts right away!
Key Takeaways
Mitchell Starc (27) and Glenn McGrath (26) have taken the most wickets in a single ODI Cricket World Cup in 2019 & 2007 respectively.
Among the Top 17 most wicket takers in one CWC (Cricket World Cup), Mitchell Starc had an insane 2015 World Cup – 10.18 average, 17.40 strike rate, and 3.50 economy – the best stats in all departments.
Shahid Afridi in 2011 took 5 wickets twice & 4 wickets twice as well, the most for any bowler. On the flip side, Glenn McGrath took 4-wickets or above zero times in his astonishing run to 26 wickets in 2007.
Australians have featured as the top wicket-taker in an ODI World Cup on six out of the 12 occasions. Glenn McGrath & Mitchell Starc both appear twice.
Player
Wickets
World Cup
Mitchell Starc
27
2019 CWC
Glenn McGrath
26
2007 CWC
Chaminda Vaas
23
2003 CWC
Muttiah Muralitharan
23
2007 CWC
Shaun Tait
23
2007 CWC
Mitchell Starc
22
2015 CWC
Trent Boult
22
2015 CWC
Brett Lee
22
2003 CWC
Shahid Afridi
21
2011 CWC
Glenn McGrath
21
2003 CWC
Evolution of the Most Wickets in a Single World Cup (1975-2023)
1975: Gary Gilmour (Australia) – 11
1979: Mike Hendrick (England) – 10
1983: Roger Binny (India) – 18
1987: Craig McDermott (Australia) – 18
1992: Wasim Akram (Pakistan) – 18
1996: Anil Kumble (India) – 15
1999: Geoff Allott (New Zealand), Shane Warne (Australia) – 20
2015: Mitchell Starc (Australia), Trent Boult (New Zealand) – 22
2019: Mitchell Starc (Australia) – 27
List of Top 17 Wicket Takers in a Single ODI World Cup
We filtered with a cut-off of 20 wickets in a single world cup. 17 bowlers have taken 20 or more wickets in a cricket world cup. Here is the complete list.
1. Mitchell Starc (Australia) – 27 Wickets, 2019 ODI World Cup
Who has scored the most centuries ODI Cricket World Cup?
Here is a quick answer: Rohit Sharma & Sachin Tendulkar have scored the joint highest number of hundreds in ODI Cricket World Cups at 6 centuries each.
Rohit Sharma has a chance to go ahead of the pack by scoring more hundreds in the upcoming 2023 ODI Cricket World Cup.
Key Takeaways
10 cricketers have scored 4 or more centuries in the ODI Cricket World Cup. Rohit Sharma & Sachin Tendulkar lead the pack with 6 each, with Kumar Sangakkara, Ricky Ponting, and David Warner close behind with 5 each.
Sri Lanka, India, and Australia have 3 representatives each from this list while South Africa has only one in AB de Villiers
Rohit Sharma and David Warner are the only current players in the list. Joe Root is currently sitting at 3 World Cup tons.
Who has taken the greatest number of wickets in the Cricket World Cup (ODI)? Here’s a quick preview: Glenn McGrath has taken the most ODI World Cup wickets (71). Both McGrath & Mitchell Starc have dominated World Cup bowling from every measure.
The World Cup is closer than it appears. Less than 30 days to go for the 2023 Cricket World Cup now, can you believe it?
So, let’s dive right in and find out all about the greatest World Cup wicket-takers.
ODI Cricket World Cup Wicket Takers – By the Numbers
The top 5 wicket takers in the ODI Cricket World Cup (CWC) are Glenn McGrath (71), Muttiah Muralitharan (68), Lasith Malinga (56), Wasim Akram (55), and Mitchell Starc (49).
From the Top 20 wicket-takers in the ODI CWC, nations most represented are as follows: Australia (5), New Zealand (4), Sri Lanka, Pakistan (3), South Africa, India (2), and Bangladesh (1). Surprisingly, the West Indies do not make the Top 30 in this list.
Mitchell Starc has the best average (14.81), bowling strike rate (19.12), and most occurrences of 4 wickets or more (6: 3 – 4-fers, 3 – 5-fers). On the other end of the spectrum, Shakib Al Hasan has the worst average (35.94) and strike rates (42.14).
The best figures from this group of 20 are Glenn McGrath (7/15), Tim Southee (7/33), Chaminda Vaas (6/25), Mitchell Starc (6/28), and Lasith Malinga (6/38). Note that Shane Bond also has World Cup figures of 6/23, but his overall wicket tally of 30 ranks him at #26 in this list.
Mitchell Starc (49), Trent Boult (39), Tim Southee (34), and Shakib Al Hasan (34) are the only active players still in this list who are expected to play in the 2023 ODI World Cup.
The ODI Cricket World Cup: Who Has Taken the Most Number of Wickets?
Honorable Mentions: Shane Warne – 32, Chris Harris – 32, Mohammad Shami – 31, Anil Kumble – 31, Shaun Pollock – 31, Shane Bond – 30, Ian Botham – 30, Shoaib Akhtar – 30, and Shahid Afridi – 30.
Final Thoughts
Although these players have taken the greatest number of wickets in the Cricket World Cup, but more than the numbers, they have given us plenty of memories to remember them by.
Think Wahab Riaz vs Watson, Chaminda Vaas’s hat-trick, Boult vs Starc at Eden Park, Wasim Akram in the final, that Shane Bond spell, Imran Tahir’s celebrations, and much more.
I will leave you with this question for the 2023 ODI World Cup is, “Can Mitchell Starc break the World Cup record for the most wickets?”Comment below!
The top 5 wicket takers in the ODI Cricket World Cup (CWC) are Glenn McGrath (71), Muttiah Muralitharan (68), Lasith Malinga (56), Wasim Akram (55), and Mitchell Starc (49).
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ) – Most Number of Wickets in the Cricket World Cup
Who has taken the most wickets in World Cup?
Glenn McGrath (71), Muttiah Muralitharan (68), Lasith Malinga (56), Wasim Akram (55), and Mitchell Starc (49) have taken the most number of wickets in the Cricket World Cup.
How many World Cup wickets does Mitchell Starc have?
Mitchell Starc has taken 49 ODI World Cup wickets from just 18 matches. He boasts an absurd bowling average of 14.18 & strike rate of 19.12. He has taken 4-wickets thrice and 5-wickets thrice as well.
Can Mitchell Starc break the World Cup record for the most wickets?
Yes he can. If he is fit and plays in all the games on India’s pitches, then he can take 23 wickets to break Glenn McGrath’s record of 71 wickets. In case Australia reaches the final, he may have as many as 11 matches to break the World record (otherwise, he can play a maximum of 9 matches in the group stage).
2021 T20 World Cup Team Review Time. Here is the complete dissection of every team. The best moments, analysis, stats, and what changes need to be made for each team to succeed in the upcoming 2022 T20 World Cup. Comment below on your favorite moment of this T20 World Cup and what you think about their prospects in the 2022 T20 World Cup in Australia.
Australia—a name so synonymous to Cricket World Cups it is not even a surprise they somehow managed to win this one. Unlike most times, though, they were not even in Top 5 Favorites this time around. Even Bangladesh & Afghanistan were fancied more since Australia has lost their last 4 T20I bilateral series and were hammered 4-1 in Bangladesh.
Lots of good stories for Justin Langer’s group. A group of lovely characters, marked by Stoinis, Zampa, Wade, Maxwell combined with their star power in Warner-Smith-Cummins-Hazlewood-Starc deliver unlikely victory. Hazlewood’s accuracy, Zampa’s wicket-taking abilities, Warner’s consistency, Mitchell Marsh’s coming of age, Steve Smith’s boundary catching, and Stoinis-Wade’s finishing combined to make this a dangerous T20 side.
Now Australia has won everything—Women’s ODI & T20I World Cups, U-19 World Cups, Men’s ODI & T20 World Cups & Champions Trophy. Looks like life is all good for Australia and free of Paine…
Mitchell Marsh’s Dream Final, Matthew Wade-Marcus Stoinis Partnership, Cummins at the Death
Luck Factor (Or the Lack of)
Aaron Finch Wins All the Tosses
Broken Dreams
Starc 4-0-60-0 in the Final. Does he merit a place in the 2022 T20 World Cup Squad?
What Does Australia Need to Do For the 2022 T20 World Cup?
Home World Cup, expectations on them. No team has won two consecutive T20 World Cups or a T20 World Cup at home. Now, they have a good T20 core group from which they can challenge the rest of the world. The real question here is—Can Australia continue playing the same brand of cricket?
2. New Zealand 2021 T20 World Cup
New Zealand are the best all-format team to beat at the moment, aren’t they? 2 ODI World Cup finals in a row (2015, 2019), current World Test Championship holders, and now the runners up in a T20 World Cup. Just like Australia, not many expected them to get to semi-finals, let alone the finals. With an early loss to Pakistan, things did start positively for them. Credit to them, they strangled India, survived threat against Namibia, and continued on their marching way before the Neesham-Mitchell assault shocked England.
Positives? Mitchell’s inspirational promotion & Top 3’s solo performances (Mitchell’s 72*, Williamson’s 85, & Guptill’s 93, Southee’s economical World Cup, shining Boult & Sodhi (if we take out Sodhi’s final), roaring Milne in his comeback, and Neesham, who finally gets his revenge.
Negatives? Conway-Phillips-Seifert had been one of the reasons for NZ’s success in T20I’s over the past year, but none of them had a stellar performance. Conway played a crucial recovery innings in the semi-finals, Phillips (once a keeper) bowled some tight off spin and hit Zampa for a six in the final, but other than that, nothing much of note. Also Guptill’s 27 (35).…say no more.
Kane Williamson (216) Martin Guptill (208) Daryl Mitchell (208)
Highest Wicket Takers
Trent Boult (13)
X Factors
Daryl Mitchell – the Opener, Neesham – the Finisher, Fielding Unit, Southee Reinvents Himself
Broken Dreams
Lockie Ferguson ruled out before the WC; Devon Conway injures himself by punching his bat after his semi-final dismissals; Misses the Final; New Zealand struggle early on and ends up on the runners up podium again.
What Does New Zealand Need to Do For the 2022 T20 World Cup?
New Zealand made it to the final on the back of good strategy and smart cricket. However, it is unlikely that this squad will succeed again in 2022 in Australian conditions. Do all three of Ish Sodhi-Todd Astle-Mitchell Santner fit in the 15? Does Martin Guptill continue or will Finn Allen be given a chance? Can both Adam Milne & Lockie Ferguson make the XI? Where does Tim Seifert fit in the equation? So many questions, less than 335 days, as Jimmy Neesham puts it.
3. Pakistan 2021 T20 World Cup Team Review
Will Pakistan get a better chance? World Cup in the UAE, Babar Azam & Mohammad Rizwan in the form of their lives, bowling good as usual, fielding better than ever, Asif Ali finally coming into his own, and the 40 year youngsters Hafeez and Malik matching everybody else.
5 group matches, 5 different player of the match awards. Shaheen Shah Afridi, Asif Ali, Haris Rauf, Mohammad Rizwan, and Shoaib Malik. And the most runs of the tournament by their captain Babar Azam?
How did they get here? By completely dominating the match against India (via Shaheen’s opening spell including that ball to KL Rahul), completed a low scorer against NZ, crushed Afghanistan with Asif Ali’s 4 sixes, and brushed Scotland & Namibia by batting first.
Pakistan, who have been disappointed by NZ and England cricket boards, were writing a lovely beautiful story. However, just as in the 2010 T20 WC semi final against Australia, the story went off track. A left handed middle order batter finished it off with consecutive sixes against Pakistan’s best bowler. It was Mike Hussey Vs Saeed Ajmal 11 years ago. It was Matthew Wade Vs Shaheen Shah Afridi this year.
Shadab Khan (9) Haris Rauf (8) Shaheen Shah Afridi (7)
X Factors
Haris Rauf’s death bowling, Shaheen Shah Afridi in the Powerplay, Imad Wasim-Shadab Khan’s miserly spells, Babar-Rizwan partnerhship, Malik-Asif Finishing
Broken Dreams
Hasan Ali’s Form Lose a Close Semi-Final After Winning 5/5 Group Matches and dominating 35 overs of the semi=final
What Does Pakistan Need To Do For the 2022 T20 World Cup?
Although Pakistan were possibly the best team throughout this year, they will have to make several changes next year due to conditions. A 150-160 score may not be defendable, the bowling combinations might need to be tweaked, and some young aggresive batters like Haider Ali will need to be placed in the XI.
4. England 2021 T20 World Cup Team Review
I have two points of view on this England campaign. One can say that just like Pakistan, it was an underwhelming campaign since they dominated the group stages and failed to finish the semi-final like the Carlos Brathwaite final 5 years ago.
On the other hand, England were already missing Ben Stokes, Jofra Archer, and Sam Curran. During the tournament, they lost Tymal Mills, their best death bowler, and Jason Roy. The fact that they still dominated the tournament shows the marvelous depth in English cricket right now.
The positives? Moeen Ali’s all round package, Chris Woakes’ opening spells, Tymal Mills’ international comeback, Adil Rashid’s magic, Livingstone’s off-spin/leg-spin, and Jos Buttler’s century.
Adil Rashid (9) Moeen Ali, Tymal Mills, Chris Woakes (7) Liam Livingstone, Chris Jordan (6)
X Factors
Tymal Mills’ death bowling, Moeen Ali’s all-round show; The Beast that is Buttler
Broken Dreams
Favorites fail to lift the T20 World Cup again; Tymal Mills & Jason Roy out injured mid-tournament; Morgan-Livingstone underwhelm with the bat
What Does England Need To Do For the 2022 T20 World Cup?
Given Eoin Morgan’s batting form, he is almost nearing the end of his England journey although his captaincy was still top notch. Ashes is around the corner, and it is too soon to predict squads since injuries/retirements/mental health breaks are around the corner due to their grueling schedule. Malan & Moeen might stay, but Morgan might not make the XI if Stokes is back. If England can find depth & consistency in their death bowling (need to look past Jordan & Tom Curran), then this golden generation might have lift the T20 World Cup trophy.
5. South Africa 2021 T20 World Cup Team Review
One of the two teams that would go back with positives. Despite the Quinton de Kock Controversy early on, South Africa held themselves up nicely under captain Temba Bavuma.
Anrich Nortje was devastating throughout the tournament, even a sub-par Kagiso Rabada got a hat-trick, Killer Miller came back to win a thriller against Sri Lanka, Rassie Van der Dussen-Aiden Markram made huge strides, and spinners Markram-Maharaj tied down the opposition. The peak of their journey was the final match where they defeated tournament favorites England, and dented their confidence going to the semi-finals.
The only two blips? The narrow loss against Australia in the opening game of the Super 12s and the slow chase against Bangladesh meant they finished they barely failed to qualify due to net run rate.
I had anticipated South Africa would miss ABD, Faf, Tahir, and Morris but evidently they made it work.
Nortje-Shamsi brilliant with the ball, Markram-van der Dussen brilliant with the bat, The Return of Killer Miller, and Temba Bavuma’s captaincy
Broken Dreams
Quinton de Kock & Cricket South Africa’s miscommunication and mini-scandal Failing to Qualify for the Semi-Finals on NRR again
What Does South Africa Need To Do For the 2022 T20 World Cup?
South Africa need more stability in their middle order. The bowlers can defend middling scores in all conditions, but inconsistency in batting and lack of death is holding them back. They have a good core, if they do not get the Group of Death again, they will definitely be semi-finalist contenders.
6. Sri Lanka 2021 T20 World Cup Team Review
The most improved and watchable team of the T20 World Cup. Sri Lanka was the only team in the first week to look a class apart. In the Super 12s, they began positively with an improbable chase against Bangladesh and pushed England to the edge. However, they never really recovered from their last over loss against South Africa.
Asalanka & Rajapaska were the pick of the batters, opposition had no clue for their mystery spin, and Lahiru Kumara’s aggressive attitude and speed took opposition by surprise.Wanindu Hasaranga is having a dream year, and he was one of the standouts of this World Cups, both with the bat and the ball.
Wanindu Hasaranga’s All-Round Show, Lahiru Kumara’s aggression, Nissanka-Asalanka-Rajapaksa form core for the future
Broken Dreams
Lose Steam Towards The End After Winning 5 Overall
What Does Sri Lanka Need To Do For the 2022 T20 World Cup?
From 2015, Sri Lanka had been in grave transition. They finally found a group of players they can persist with in the near future.Hasaranga, Asalanka, & Rajapaksa defined this team with their positive brand of cricket. Finally opener Pathum Nissanka and mystery spinner Theekshana are really good prospects for Sri Lanka. If the seniors—Kusal Perera, Dhananjaya de Silva, captain Dasun Shanaka, (maybe Chandimal & Matthews as well?) and the pacers Chameera-Kumara can come together, they might be the dark horse for the next World Cup.
Unfortunately just failed the direct qualification to the Super 12s, so have to go through the double qualification once again.
7. India 2021 T20 World Cup Team Review
A tough tournament for Indian fans.
A dismal loss against Pakistan, a week long break, no intent against their WC arch-nemesis, New Zealand, and three spirited efforts against Afghanistan, Scotland, and Namibia to boost their net run rate. However, NZ’s victory against Afghanistan ensured India was never really in the tournament apart from outside mathematical calculations. It was the vulnerability against left arm seamers and good fast bowling once again that left India on the backfoot against Pakistan & NZ respectively.
Ravichandran Ashwin’s control in the middle overs and the intent shown by KL Rahul & Rohit Sharma at the end were some positives for India.
Jasprit Bumrah, Ravindra Jadeja (7) Ravichandran Ashwin, Mohammad Shami (6)
X Factors
R Ashwin’s economical middle overs; Rahul-Sharma opening partnership (when they played with freedom)
Broken Dreams
India loses against arch-nemesis NZ; First WC Loss to Pakistan; Favorites crash out without a fight; Shami suffers social media abuse; Kohli’ bows out captaincy career without a title
What Does India Need To Do For the 2022 T20 World Cup?
Revamp their whole squad might be a rash decision, but something out of the ordinary is needed. Although some bold decisions were taken for this tournament, more game time is needed for a new-look T20I team. KL Rahul & Rohit Sharma should stay opening partners, Suryakumar, Pant, Bumrah, & Jadeja should remain in the fray, but the rest is up in the air, especially for Australian conditions.
Does Kohli fit in or do India do what England did to Root? Ashwin has been good, but Chahal definitely merits a place back. What about the Hardik Pandya problem? Can India find batters that in the top 4 that can bowl? India have the players, but maybe it is a curse rather than a blessing in ICC tournaments for this immense depth.
8. Afghanistan 2021 T20 World Cup Team Review
Afghanistan did not have the worst of tournaments and were in contention till the very last day of the Super 12s, but there is a feeling that they could have done better.
In these conditions, Rashid-Mujeeb-Nabi were devastating individually but could not all fire together. The openers gave them spark, but not consistently. Najibullah Zadran was in his peak for, Hamid Hassan was back, and captain Mohammad Nabi batted with responsibility. Muscular Gulbadin Naib had a decent outing, and so did Naveen-ul-Haq. The only team to bat first with confidence and defend scores, their change of strategies in the crunch game against India did not work out for them.
Post the Pakistan game, it all just fell apart. 4 sixes in a row prompted freak retirement announcement by senior batter Asghar Afghan in the middle of the tournament. They could not manage to upset India or NZ, which is all that was needed.
Mystery Spinners; Nabi-Najibullah late order hitting; Zazai-Shahzad provide some good starts
Broken Dreams
Did not upset any of the big 3 in the group—NZ, Pakistan, & India Tough close loss against Pakistan and subsequent retirement of Asghar Afghan in the middle of the tournament derailed their campaign
What Does Afghanistan Need To Do For the 2022 T20 World Cup?
First they need to ensure no administrative turmoil. For the last two World Cups now, they have had captaincy changes right before the tournament. Afghanistan might be upbeat for next year since many of their players have BBL experience in Australia. All they need ais a couple of fast bowlers and Qais Ahmed back, and this team can outdo any other on a given day.
9. Namibia 2021 T20 World Cup Team Review
The story of the tournament by far.
First time qualifying for a cricket world cup since 2003 and guess what? Not only winning one game but THREE GAMES! Defeated the European trio of Ireland (full member), Netherlands, and Scotland and got a direct entry to the 2022 T20 World Cup.
The middle order, led by David Wiese, was their saving grace but their disciplined bowling, led by Trumpelmann & Wiese, kept them in the game, even against the likes of Pakistan and New Zealand. Trumpelmann’s 3-wicket opening over & JJ Smit’s finishing heroics over Scotland was the highlight of their tournament. Kudos to captain Erasmus for playing the tournament with a broken finger.
Jan Frylinck (9) David Wiese (6) Ruben Trumpelmann (6)
X Factors
Lower Middle Order Trumpelmann’s Opening Spells
Broken Dreams
None Really. Except for their opening game against Sri Lanka, they competed well throughout the tournament even against Full Members
What Does Namibia’s Need To Do For the 2022 T20 World Cup?
If Namibia need to improve and go one step further, they need to add a bit of spice to their bowling attack. For their first 10 overs, they are good but need to keep opposition down at the death.Can they make it to the Super 12s again?
10. Scotland 2021 T20 World Cup Team Review
Scotland experienced high highs and suffered low lows.
From 53-6 in their opening game against Bangladesh, a Chris Greaves inspired victory gave them victory over Bangladesh. They dominated the early groups with 3 wins in 3 matches. They nosedived with a 130-run loss against Afghanistan’s spin in the first match of the Super 12s and never recovered. Their only hope was against Namibia which they made a game out of, but still lost.
The bowlers came to the party, especially Mark Watt (1/19, 1/23, 1/23, 1/23, 1/22, 1/13, 1/20, 0/41) but their famed batters let them down.
Richie Berrington (177) George Munsey (152) Matthew Cross (135) Michael Leask (130)
Highest Wicket Takers
Josh Davey (9) Safyaan Sharif, Brad Wheal (8) Mark Watt (7) Chris Greaves (6)
X Factors
Watt’s Economical (6.13) Consistency, Berrington’s Fifties, Fast Bowlers Accurate, Leask’s Power Hitting, The Rise of Chris Greaves, Matt Cross’s Commetnary Behind the Stumps
Broken Dreams
Kyle Coetzer & Heralded Top Order Suffer Collective Failure
What Does Scotland Need To Do For the 2022 T20 World Cup?
Are Scotland’s golden era ageing or was it just the conditions? The good thing is they have qualified for the 2022 T20 World Cup by the virtue of qualifying for the Super 12s. They need batting depth and power hitters to complement their bowlers. Should still make it past the early group into the Super 12s next year.
11. West Indies 2021 T20 World Cup Team Review
Well the Last Dance was not meant to be. Only one win overall, and that too by 3 runs.
Not only did West Indies not qualify for the semi-finals, they had a horrible time. Bundled out for 55 against England, they never really figured out what their approach will be. Go all guns blazing like Lewis tried or hang in there like Lendl Simmons? Gayle-Pollard-Russell were almost no shows, and Jason Holder as replacement (who should have been in the squad in the first place) was the only spark.
Akeal Hosein was the find for West Indies, filling Fabian Allen’s left arm spin shoe perfectly as were Pooran-Hetmyer briefly. It was good to see Bravo & Gayle having fun in what may be their last T20I.
55 All Out Obed McCoy Injury Lendl Simmons’ Slow Show Dwayne Bravo Retires Chris Gayle (almost) retires Horror show for T20 stars Gayle, Pollard, Russell Hat-trick Dream Unfulfilled
What Does West Indies Need To Do For the 2022 T20 World Cup?
A completely rejig of the squad is needed. Hetmyer, Pooran, Lewis, Holder, Fabian Allen, Akeal Hosein, and even Kieron Pollard might stay but it is the end of the road for Gayle, Bravo, Russell? and Rampaul. It would be interesting to see if Roston Chase stays and if ‘rotating the strike’ will come into their T20 philosophy. West Indies of the 2010s changed T20 cricket with their boundary hitting but they need to move on with the times.
12. Bangladesh 2021 T20 World Cup Team Review
Where do I even start?
I was a fan of the rising Bangladesh ODI team and had them as a semi-finalist possibility, but this team was a complete no-show. Expected to do well in spinning UAE conditions and after dominating Australia & New Zealand at home in dust bowls, this was a huge let down.
For the first time in recent WCs, the seniors did not stand up (Shakib in the first few games apart) which exposed the gaps in the rest of the team. The likes of Liton Das, Soumy Sarkar, and Afif Hossain have not really become consistent cricketers that Bangladesh needed.
The worst part was the last couple of games. Losing a WC happens, but giving up without a fight was truly disappointing as they were skittled for 73 and 84 respectively against Australia & South Africa.
Taskin Ahmed’s comeback spirit and Mahedi Hasan were the only positive.
Shakib Al Hasan (11) Mahedi Hasan, Mustafizur Rahman (8)
X Factors
Taskin Ahmed’s Energy Mahedi Hasan Shakib Al Hasan in the early stages
Broken Dreams
Mahmudullah’s captaincy decisions Mushfiqur Rahim’s lack of form Liton Das’s Horror Show Youngsters Fail To Rise to the Occasion Mustafizur Expensive Shakib Al Hasan’s Injury
What Does Bangladesh Need To Do For the 2022 T20 World Cup?
The next generation of Bangladesh cricket need to come in. Already the likes of Saif Hasasn, Najmul Hossain Shanto, leg spinner Aminul Islam, U-19 winning captain Akbar Ali among others have been selected for the Pakistan T20I series while Mushfiqur Rahim is dropped. I expect the Fab 4 to be in the squad in Australia, but maybe not a regular XI spot. This is the step in the right direction, but one year is too less for a T20I team to develop. It may take a few years to bounce back.
13. Oman 2021 T20 World Cup Team Review
Oman will have mixed feelings from this World Cup.
First of all, they were wonderful hosts and made sure the tournament started off the right foot (beautiful background as well). After winning the first game against PNG comfortably, they would have felt they are almost into the Super 12s, but they let the tense game against Bangladesh slip.
Bilal Khan, Zeeshan Mazsood (5) Kaleemullah, Fayyab Butt (4)
X Factors
Jatinder Singh-Aqib Ilyas Opening Partnership
Broken Dreams
Had a foot in the door early on, but could not maintain momentum; This was a good chance to qualify to the next round since all matches were at home
What Does Oman Need To Do For the 2022 T20 World Cup?
They need to go back and qualify for the 2022 T20 World Cup. They need to make sure their middle order batters can endure pressure moments. Qualification cycles can be difficult, so we do not know if we will see them again. With Zimbabwe back in the qualifiers, it will just be harder.
14. Ireland 2021 T20 World Cup Team Review
All was well and good with the world when Curtis Campher took 4 wickets in 4 balls and Ireland hammered the Netherlands. However, Sri Lanka’s big defeat rocked their NRR and a rising Namibia overthrew them as the ‘Associate giant.’
It was just destiny. Ireland upset the big teams 15 years ago to gain respect for the Associate nations, and now when they are a Full Member, a stronger set of Associate nations are beginning to upset them.
Josh Little the only positive for them apart from Campher.
Curtis Campher, The Double Hat-trick Man (or 4-in-4?)
Broken Dreams
Full Member Ireland seem to be regressing in T20Is despite strides in ODI cricket
What Does Ireland Need To Do For the 2022 T20 World Cup?
Ireland’s golden generation has ended, and it will take a while for the young guns to pick up but T20 cricket is just not suited to their styles.Probably the end of the road for Kevin O’Brien. Honestly, I do not see Ireland see improving much unless T20 franchise leagues start acquring talent like Paul Stirling and Josh Little.
15. Papua New Guinea 2021 T20 World Cup Team Review
Papua New Guinea brought the world to the Cricket World Cup. Although they did not win any games, their family-like spirit took the fans by delight.
The partnership between Assad Vala and Charles Amini against Oman displayed that these bunch of players possess a lot of talent if they are given the environment to flourish. Some good hitting at the end by Doriga as well against Scotland to keep the game interesting.
Charles Amini-Assad Vala show the flair in their side Brilliant diving catches and disciplined fielding throughout
Broken Dreams
Go Home With No Wins
What Does Papua New Guinea Need To Do For the 2022 T20 World Cup?
They have to go through qualification again. The next World Cup is near their home in Oceania, but is their World Cup qualification dream too far?
16. Netherlands 2021 T20 World Cup Team Review
Netherlands were a rising team over the last couple of years, but questionable selections and lack of preparation due to COVID-19 meant they could not carry their form in the tournament.
106/10, 44/10 and losing to Namibia after scoring 164/4. Not much of note apart from Max O’Dowd’s form. They came in with good form and called upon RTD & RVDM, but performances did not add up.
Netherlands’ World Cup In A Nutshell
Result
4th in Group A
Wins/Losses
0/3
Best Match
None
Highest Run Scorers
Max O’Dowd (123)
Highest Wicket Takers
Pieter Seelar, Fred Klaassen, Brandon Glover (2)
X Factors
Max O’Dowd continues his good form
Broken Dreams
The great Ryan Ten Doeschate retires without a proper sendoff (does not get selected for the last match)
What Does Netherlands Need To Do For the 2022 T20 World Cup?
They just need to play more between World Cups. They have a South Africa tour coming up. Hopefully they can gain good experience and build confidence. Will need to qualify again however.
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Toss: West Indies won the toss and chose to field first.
Venue: Zayed Cricket Stadium, Abu Dhabi, UAE
Umpires: Aleem Dar & Langton Rusere
What Actually Happened
Winner: Sri Lanka won by 20 runs
Scores: Sri Lanka 189/3West Indies 169/8
Player of the Match:Charith Asalanka 68 (41)
Best Figures
Andre Russell (4-0-33-2)
Wanindu Hasaranga (4-0-19-2)
Most Runs
Charith Asalanka 68 (44)
Shimron Hetmyer 81* (54)
Moments of The Day: Sri Lanka Batted Better, Fielded Better, Bowled Better
Everyone from Sri Lanka contributed today. Kusal Perera 29 (21) & Pathum Nissanka 51 (41) gave them yet another bright start, but it was Asalanka’a clinical timing and Shanaka’s finishing 25* (14) that gave SL an above-par sore.
In every one of these quick summaries, we have mentioned Hasaranga. Sometimes he has contributed with the bat, sometimes with the ball, and sometimes both. Oh and the fielding is pretty good as well. Here is how he fared in the tournament, definitely a player of the tournament contender:
2/24
71 & 1/12
3/9
6 & 0/29
4 & 2/22
4 & 3/20
34 & 3/21
2/19
In a must win crunch game, 8 out of the 10 West Indian batters, most of them legends, scored in the single digits. Only the young guns, Nicholas Pooran (age 26) scored 46 (34) and Shimron Hetmyer (age 24) made sure West Indies at least competed. Hetmyer did not give up till the very end, bringing the target down to 35 in 6 balls.
Honorable Mention: Rajapaksa’s diving catch to dismiss Roston Chase & Karunatne’s running catch to dismiss Holder were outstanding
Broken Cricket Dream of the Day: The Sun Sets For the Legends
Darren Sammy had repeatedly set on air that these group of West Indian players were aware that this tournament would define their legacies, especially Chris Gayle & Dwayne Bravo. However, Gayle went out for 1 & Bravo for 2 (and only one wicket at an economy rate of 10.50). Bravo is officially retiring from international duty after this World Cup and one can only assume the same with Chris Gayle.
Pollard is still staying although his captaincy status depends on the board. With Pooran, Hetmyer, & Holder (only 29 years old), the leadership group for the next generation is there but rebuilding needs to start now.
In any case, thank you Legends. We love you for all you have given this sport. They have defined the T20 format and made it their own.
T20 World Cup Points Table, Most Runs, Wickets, Catches, Dismissals
No need to go elsewhere for thePoints Table, Highest Run Scorer, Highest Wicket Taker, Most Catches, and Most Dismissals. We will keep updating it in every article!
Image Courtesy: Graphic (original work), Kyle Coetzer – Photo by Francois Nel-ICC/ICC via Getty Images, Mahmudullah – Photo by Mike Hewitt-ICC/ICC via Getty Images
Moments of The Day: Hasaranga’s Hat-Trick, Miller-Rabada’s Finishing Defines Close Game
Pathum Nissanka has been one of the most promising names in Sri Lanka’s domestic circuit, boasting a first class average of 64.45 & scoring his first ton within 4 Tests. With this 72, I am glad he has transferred his talent in T20Is.
Temba Bavuma has been under scrutiny ever since his Test debut and more so, since captaincy. His 46 (46) might not look inspiring, but in this World T20, each team needs a middle order batter that can grind it out. Also his leadership with the QDK saga has been brilliant. Supporting his teammate all the way, while standing up for the movement at the same time.
Let us talk about David Miller. In 2018 & 2020, he averaged 20.16 with 113.08 SR and 25.00 average at 120.48 SR respectively. He had a good 2019, which kept him in the team but he is flourishing this year – 46.50 at 148.80. This match with the World Cup on the line, he struck two of the cleanest sixes of the World Cup, with Rabada hitting the last 4 to give South Africa a close victory. Miller’s career phases- Killer Miller, Accumulator Miller, Gone Miller….and the Old Miller is back!
Broken Cricket Dream of the Day: Can SL Keep Playing the Same Brand of Cricket?
SL are one of the only countries playing a positive brand of Cricket regardless of the situation. The attitude helped them win 4 in 4, but with 2 consecutive losses including a close one here might dent their confidence. Can they continue in a similar fashion?
Also Read:
T20 World Cup Points Table, Stat Alert
No need to go elsewhere for the Points Table, Highest Run Scorer, Highest Wicket Taker, Most Catches, and Most Dismissals. We will keep updating it in every article!
Image Courtesy: Graphic (original work), Kyle Coetzer – Photo by Francois Nel-ICC/ICC via Getty Images, Mahmudullah – Photo by Mike Hewitt-ICC/ICC via Getty Images
Toss: Australia won the toss and chose to field first.
Venue: Dubai International Cricket Stadium, Dubai, UAE
Umpires: Aleem Dar & Richard Illingworth
What Actually Happened
Winner: Australia won by 7 wickets
Scores: Sri Lanka 154/6 – Australia 155/3
Player of the Match: Adam Zampa 2/12
Best Figures
Adam Zampa (4-0-12-2)
Wanindu Hasaranga (4-0-22-2)
Most Runs
Charith Asaslanka 35 (27), Kusal Perera 35 (25)
David Warner 65 (42)
Moments of The Day: Australia Has Woken Up
When Kusal Perera & Charith Asalanaka were batting, Sri Lanka could do no wrong. The pulls and straight sixes were a delight to watch. Sri Lanka’s promise was coming back.SL 78/1 in 9.3 overs.
Then came the duo of Mitchell Starc and Adam Zampa. Within three overs, Sri Lanka collapsed to 94/5, including a beautiful yorker by Starc to Perera. Another good innings by Rajapaksa (33*) and support from captain Dasun Shanaka got SL to a decent 154/6.
However this was no challenge for Australia as the old horse returned. 70 run opening partnership (Finch 37) and Warner’s 65 silenced the critics. Also, who said Steve Smith cannot bat in T20s? He has been crucial in these low scoring chases recently.
Warner, Finch, Smith, Starc, Cummins, Hazlewood, Zampa all found form. Australia are smelling a World Cup semi-final spot. Beware of this team.
Broken Cricket Dream of the Day: Sri Lanka Finally Lose
Sri Lanka’s journey in this World Cup has been pitch perfect. For the first hour, it seemed that the new style of their cricket would take them to a fifth victory. That was not to be, and now couple of crucial games follow due to this loss.
The Broken Dream of the Day – Kusal Perera’s dropped catch – Has to rank among the worst dropped catches of all time and let Warner back into the game.
No need to go elsewhere for the Points Table, Highest Run Scorer, Highest Wicket Taker, Most Catches, and Most Dismissals. We will keep updating it in every article!
Mahmudullah – 150 runs (Bangladesh, 6 Matches)
Shakib Al Hasan – 11 wickets (Bangladesh, 4 Matches)
Calum MacLeod – 6 catches (Scotland, 5 Matches)
Nurul Hasan, Matthew Cross (Bangladesh/Scotland) – 5 dismissals
Group 1 Table
Teams
Played
Won
Lost
Tied No-Result
Points
Net Run Rate
1. England
2
2
0
0
4
+ 3.614
2. Australia
2
2
0
0
4
+ 0.727
3. South Africa
2
1
1
0
2
+ 0.179
4. Sri Lanka
2
1
1
0
2
– 0.416
5. West Indies
3
1
2
0
2
– 1.598
6. Bangladesh
3
0
3
0
0
– 1.069
T20 World Cup 2021 Group 1 Points Table
Group 2 Table
Teams
Played
Won
Lost
Tied No-Result
Points
Net Run Rate
1. Pakistan
3
3
0
0
6
+ 0.638
2. Afghanistan
2
1
1
0
2
+ 3.092
3. Namibia
1
0
1
0
2
+ 0.550
4. New Zealand
1
0
1
0
0
– 0.532
5. India
1
0
1
0
0
– 0.973
6. Scotland
2
0
0
0
2
– 3.562
T20 World Cup 2021 Group 2 Points Table
Also, if you have not yet read our T20 World Cup Previews, here is a list of all of them! Check them out and share ahead:
Image Courtesy: Graphic (original work), Kyle Coetzer – Photo by Francois Nel-ICC/ICC via Getty Images, Mahmudullah – Photo by Mike Hewitt-ICC/ICC via Getty Images
Bangladesh Vs Sri Lanka Quick Review – Finally a high scoring run chase! Sri Lanka win 4 in 4 as Bangladesh need to reflect on certain bowling decisions.
Moments of The Day: Batting Performances Mark High Scoring Day
Mohammad Naim continued his good form as he anchored the innings till the 16th over. It was Mushfiqur Rahim’s spectacular 57* that ensured Bangladesh went up to 171. The way he swept Hasaranga meant he only got 3 overs to bowl. After a poor run of form, good signs for Bangladesh that Rahim is back.
Sri Lanka had a similar story. Just like Rahim, birthday boy Rajapaksa kept the required rate in check during the middle overs, but the story of day was of Charith Asalanka—not only did he anchor the innings, he stayed till the end to see Sri Lanka get home.
Decision to hold Shakib & Fizz back contributed to Bangladesh’s loss. For the first 8 overs, it was anybody’s game. Then came in Shakib Al Hasan. Nissanka & Fernando both bowled throughout the gate. Bangladesh felt comfortable. Shakib still had 2 overs left. Instead of going for the jugular, two overs of Mahmudullah and one over from Afif Hossain brought Sri Lanka back into the game due to the presence of left handers. Finally, a 22-over from Saifuddin killed the chase. By the time Fizz and Shakib returned, SL only needed 24 of 24.
Lanka won by an over to spare and Shakib, higest wicket taker of the tournament so far, ended with only 3 overs…
Broken Cricket Dream of the Day: Liton Das
Liton Das had a poor day altogether.
16 (16), exchanged words with Lahiru Kumara after his dismissal, and dropped catches of both Asalanka and Rajapaksa, which were crucial moments in a close game.
No need to go elsewhere for the Points Table, Highest Run Scorer, Highest Wicket Taker, Most Catches, and Most Dismissals. We will keep updating it in every article!
Mohommad Naim – 126 runs (Bangladesh, 3 Matches)
Shakib Al Hasan – 11 wickets (Bangladesh, 4 Matches)
Image Courtesy: Graphic (original work), Kyle Coetzer – Photo by Francois Nel-ICC/ICC via Getty Images, Mahmudullah – Photo by Mike Hewitt-ICC/ICC via Getty Images
Sri Lanka Vs Netherlands Quick Review – There is not much to say for this one, is there? Just a shambolic performance by Netherlands as the Sri Lankan attack targeted the stumps.
By this time, it has been observed that Sri Lanka can be deadly on these pitches, especially Sharjah (where they play 3 matches in the Super 12s by the way). We knew the spinners and mystery from Sri Lanka would bamboozle the world, but Lahiru Kumara’s spell caught my eye. There was a perfect bouncer in the middle of his spell that captured his accuracy.
Kusal Perera hit 6 fours in his 33 to ensure that Sri Lanka stamp their authority on this game and end Round 1 of the T20 World Cup in style.
Broken Cricket Dream of the Day: Doeschate Retires Without a Farewell
Ryan Ten Doeschate has been such a legend for the Netherlands, the original T20 globetrotter. Average of 67.00 (87.7 SR) in ODI cricket and 41.00 (132.91 SR) in T20I. Debuted in first class cricket way back in 2003. It was sad to see him leave the cricketing stage without a game. Final match, Dutch already out, but we did not see him again. Only 0 (1) in Campher’s 4 in 4. #BrokenCricketDream
No need to go elsewhere for the Points Table, Highest Run Scorer, Highest Wicket Taker, Most Catches, and Most Dismissals. We will keep updating it in every article!
Max O’Dowd – 123 runs (Netherlands, 3 Matches)
Shakib Al Hasan – 9 wickets (Bangladesh, 3 Matches)
Image Courtesy: Graphic (original work), Kyle Coetzer – Photo by Francois Nel-ICC/ICC via Getty Images, Mahmudullah – Photo by Mike Hewitt-ICC/ICC via Getty Images
Moments of The Day: Hasaranga Here, Hasaranga There, Hasaranga Everywhere
Josh Little comes to the party – Little has been one of the positives from the Irish campaign. He gave Ireland the early boost with wickets of consecutive deliveries. What is the batter is the manner of dismissals – wonderful bowleds!
The Hasaranga-Nissanka partnership – Then came the game changing partnership – 123 (82). It was well paced. Not only did they provide recovery, they accelerated towards the end to get Sri Lanka to a winning total of 171.
Karunaratne (2/27)-Chameera (1/16)-Theekshana (3/17)-Hasaranga (1/12)-Kumara (2/22) near unplayable – With Stirling-O’Brien out early, Ireland never really built momentum. Each bowler contributed nicely. Although the mystery spinners are in focus, do not discount this fast bowling unit. Watch out for this Sri Lankan team in UAE conditions.
Broken Cricket Dream of the Day: Ireland Fail to Assert Pressure
Sri Lanka were reeling at 8/3 in 1.4 overs with star batters Perera-Chandimal-Fernando out. However, Ireland failed to appoly pressure and saved the brilliant Josh Little for later. Why not go for the jugular right at the front?
No need to go elsewhere for the Points Table, Highest Run Scorer, Highest Wicket Taker, Most Catches, and Most Dismissals. We will keep updating it in every article!
Max O’Dowd – 123 runs (Netherlands, 3 Matches)
Shakib Al Hasan – 9 wickets (Bangladesh, 3 Matches)
Image Courtesy: Graphic (original work), Kyle Coetzer – Photo by Francois Nel-ICC/ICC via Getty Images, Mahmudullah – Photo by Mike Hewitt-ICC/ICC via Getty Images