So far, only one Indian bowler has crossed the milestone of 100 wickets in T20I cricket. In the fast-paced world of T20 cricket, where explosive batting often takes center stage, the contributions of bowlers can sometimes be overlooked. This format celebrates towering sixes, record-breaking chases, and the sheer artistry of batting. Yet, even amidst the dominance of the willow, a select group of Indian bowlers has managed to leave a significant mark, turning matches with their skill and strategy.
Bowlers: Facing the constant onslaught of power hitters, these bowlers haven’t just coped—they’ve thrived. Bowling in T20s demands precision, clever variations, and the ability to stay a step ahead of the batters. Time and again, these Indian bowlers have risen to the occasion, outsmarting their opponents with smart deliveries that challenge even the most aggressive hitters.
Bhuvneshwar Kumar – 90 wickets
Bhuvneshwar Kumar, once a mainstay in India’s pace attack, has made a mark with his precise seam bowling and expertise in the death overs. Known for his ability to swing the ball and provide crucial breakthroughs, Kumar has often rescued India from tricky situations, particularly during powerplays and final overs.
With 90 wickets in 87 T20I matches, including a stunning 5/4, Kumar’s consistent line and length with the new ball have made him a formidable force in the format. However, he has been out of the national setup since the 2022 T20 World Cup.
Jasprit Bumrah – 92 wickets
Jasprit Bumrah stands as a cornerstone of India’s T20 bowling attack, celebrated for his lethal mix of yorkers, deceptive slower balls, and bouncers. Renowned for striking at key moments, Bumrah has become India’s face in T20 bowling.
He has claimed 92 wickets in 72 T20I appearances, with best figures of 3/7. His precision, versatility, and ability to deliver under pressure are reflected in his impressive economy rate of 6.29 and bowling average of 16.8, highlighting his dual ability to contain runs and take crucial wickets.
Hardik Pandya – 96 wickets
Hardik Pandya, India’s dynamic all-rounder, has consistently impacted games with both bat and ball. His aggressive yet composed batting complements his effective bowling, making him a key match-winner in T20Is.
Pandya has picked up 96 wickets in 117 matches, with best bowling figures of 4/16, an average of 26.61, and an economy rate of 8.21. His ability to perform under pressure and provide breakthroughs at critical moments underscores his value to the team.
Yuzvendra Chahal – 96 wickets
Yuzvendra Chahal, India’s leg-spin maestro, was the country’s leading wicket-taker in T20Is until Arshdeep Singh surpassed him. With 96 wickets in 80 matches, Chahal’s clever variations and IPL experience have repeatedly troubled opposition batters.
Chahal’s most memorable performance came against England in 2017, where he claimed 6/25, displaying his mastery over leg-spin. He maintains a bowling average of 25.09 and an economy rate of 8.19. Despite his T20I success, Chahal has not featured in a T20 World Cup and has been absent from the national setup for some time.
Arshdeep Singh – 100 wickets
Since his T20I debut, Arshdeep Singh has become a vital part of India’s bowling lineup. He led India’s wicket-taking charts in the T20 World Cups of 2022 (10 wickets) and 2024 (17 wickets).
In just 64 matches, Arshdeep has already taken 100 wickets at an average of 18.37, including two four-wicket hauls. His ability to strike consistently in crucial moments has made him one of India’s most reliable T20 bowlers.
