The ODI World Cup is the biggest stage in cricket, where the world’s best players face off. Glenn McGrath from Australia holds the record for the most wickets in ODI World Cup history.
This article looks at the top wicket-takers in ODI World Cup history and how their skills made a difference in big games.
From fast bowlers who brought speed to spinners who used clever variations, these players all added something unique to the competition.
Reading this will give you a clear picture of how these bowlers made their mark on the ODI World Cup. You’ll see how their records set a standard for future players and understand why their achievements are celebrated in cricket.
Top 10 Most Wicket Takers In ODI World Cup
This table here will give you a deeper understanding of the most wicket takers in ODI world cups, starting from Glenn Mcgrath.
| Bowler | Matches | Wickets | Economy | Average |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Glenn McGrath | 39 | 71 | 3.96 | 18.19 |
| Muttiah Muralitharan | 40 | 68 | 3.88 | 19.63 |
| Mitchell Starc | 28 | 65 | 5.15 | 19.29 |
| Lasith Malinga | 29 | 56 | 5.51 | 22.87 |
| Mohammed Shami | 18 | 55 | 5.13 | 13.52 |
| Wasim Akram | 38 | 55 | 4.04 | 23.83 |
| Trent Boult | 29 | 53 | 4.92 | 25.54 |
| Chaminda Vaas | 31 | 49 | 3.97 | 21.22 |
| Zaheer Khan | 23 | 44 | 4.47 | 20.22 |
| Javagal Srinath | 34 | 44 | 4.32 | 27.81 |
Overview Of The Highest Wicket Takers In ODI World Cup
Read the following sections to know more about each of the bowlers and their brilliance in detail:
1. Glenn McGrath
| Span | Wickets Taken | Best Bowling Figure | Runs Given | 5-Wicket Hauls |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| 1996-2007 | 71 | 7/15 | 1292 | 2 |
Glenn McGrath is the top wicket-taker in ODI World Cup history, with 71 wickets in 39 matches. Known for his accuracy and consistency, McGrath was a key bowler for Australia across multiple World Cups. His economy rate of 3.96 and bowling average of 18.19 show his ability to keep runs low.
His exceptional performances in crucial games helped Australia dominate the ODI World Cups during his time. McGrath’s record is a testament to his skill, making him one of the most respected bowlers in World Cup history.
Interesting fact: Glenn McGrath is still the leading wicket taker in the ODI World Cup even after playing his last match back in 2007!
2. Muttiah Muralitharan
| Span | Wickets Taken | Best Bowling Figure | Runs Given | 5-Wicket Hauls |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| 1996-2011 | 68 | 4/19 | 1335 | 0 |
Muralitharan took 68 wickets in 40 World Cup matches for Sri Lanka, making him the second-highest wicket-taker in World Cup history. Known for his unique spin bowling style, he was challenging for batters to face, as shown by his economy rate of 3.88.
His ability to control the game’s flow and take important wickets was key to Sri Lanka’s success. Muralitharan’s record reflects his influence as one of the greatest spin bowlers to play the game.
3. Mitchell Starc
| Span | Wickets Taken | Best Bowling Figure | Runs Given | 5-Wicket Hauls |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| 2015-2023 | 65 | 6/28 | 1254 | 3 |
Starc has taken 65 wickets in just 28 World Cup matches, with an impressive average of 19.29. Known for his speed and accuracy, Starc was especially effective at taking early wickets and disrupting batting orders. His higher economy rate of 5.15 reflects his aggressive approach.
Starc’s bowling was vital in Australia’s World Cup campaigns, particularly during crucial matches. He has proven to be one of the most dangerous bowlers in modern ODI cricket. Known for his lethal yorkers and pace, Starc has been a match-winner for Australia.
4. Lasith Malinga
| Span | Wickets Taken | Best Bowling Figure | Runs Given | 5-Wicket Hauls |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| 2007-2019 | 56 | 6/38 | 1281 | 1 |
Malinga’s 56 wickets in 29 World Cup matches made him one of the most impactful bowlers for Sri Lanka. Known for his unique, slinging action and deadly yorkers, Malinga was a challenging bowler to face, especially in death overs. His economy rate of 5.51 shows his aggression.
He played a crucial role in helping Sri Lanka reach competitive positions in multiple World Cups. Malinga’s style and effectiveness made him a standout bowler, especially under pressure.
5. Mohammed Shami
| Span | Wickets Taken | Best Bowling Figure | Runs Given | 5-Wicket Hauls |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| 2015-2023 | 55 | 7/57 | 744 | 4 |
Shami has taken 55 wickets in only 18 World Cup matches, achieving a remarkable average rate of 13.52. With an economy rate of 5.13, he has shown his skill in both taking wickets and keeping runs down. Shami is known for his pace and ability to hit the stumps directly.
His strong World Cup performance adds great depth to India’s bowling lineup. Shami’s impressive numbers reflect his strength as one of the finest bowlers for India in ODI tournaments.
6. Wasim Akram
| Span | Wickets Taken | Best Bowling Figure | Runs Given | 5-Wicket Hauls |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| 1987-2003 | 55 | 5/28 | 1311 | 1 |
Akram took 55 wickets in 38 World Cup matches, maintaining an economy rate of 4.04. As one of Pakistan’s best-ever bowlers, he was known for his swing bowling and ability to bowl in various situations. Akram’s bowling average of 23.83 shows his consistency.
His contributions were essential for Pakistan’s success, especially during tight matches. Akram remains a legendary figure in ODI World Cup history, with skills that set him apart from his peers.
7. Trent Boult
| Span | Wickets Taken | Best Bowling Figure | Runs Given | 5-Wicket Hauls |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| 2015-2023 | 53 | 5/27 | 1354 | 1 |
Boult has taken 53 wickets in 29 World Cup matches, with an economy rate of 4.92 and an average of 25.54. Known for his left-arm swing , Boult is one of New Zealand’s most consistent performers in World Cups. His skill with the new ball has given New Zealand many breakthroughs.
Boult’s ability to handle high-pressure situations has made him an asset to his team. His performances in recent World Cups highlight his importance in New Zealand’s bowling attack.
8. Chaminda Vaas
| Span | Wickets Taken | Best Bowling Figure | Runs Given | 5-Wicket Hauls |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| 1996-2007 | 49 | 6/25 | 1040 | 1 |
Vaas took 49 wickets in 31 matches, maintaining an economy rate of 3.97. Known for his accuracy and skill with swing bowling, Vaas was a critical player for Sri Lanka in World Cups. His average of 21.22 underscores his effectiveness in containing runs while taking wickets.
As one of the most dependable bowlers, Vaas played a significant role in Sri Lanka’s World Cup campaigns. His contributions are remembered as a key part of Sri Lanka’s bowling success.
9. Zaheer Khan
| Span | Wickets Taken | Best Bowling Figure | Runs Given | 5-Wicket Hauls |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| 2003-2011 | 44 | 4/42 | 890 | 0 |
Zaheer claimed 44 wickets in 23 World Cup matches, with an economy rate of 4.47. Known for his seam and swing, Zaheer was a leading bowler for India in multiple tournaments. His average of 27.11 reflects his ability to take crucial wickets, especially in the middle overs.
Zaheer’s contributions were vital in India’s 2011 World Cup win, where he led the bowling attack with skill and experience. His World Cup record cements his place among India’s greatest ODI bowlers.
10. Javagal Srinath
| Span | Wickets Taken | Best Bowling Figure | Runs Given | 5-Wicket Hauls |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| 1992-2003 | 44 | 4/30 | 1224 | 0 |
Srinath took 44 wickets in 34 World Cup matches with an economy of 4.32, showcasing his consistency for India. Known for his pace, Srinath was often India’s main bowler, especially in challenging conditions. His bowling average of 27.81 highlights his capability in limiting runs.
As one of India’s best fast bowlers in World Cup history, Srinath’s performances remain a benchmark for future Indian pacers. His contribution to India’s World Cup campaigns is fondly remembered by fans.
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Conclusion: Glenn McGrath Has The Most Wickets In ODI World Cup
The ODI World Cup has been a stage for incredible bowling achievements, where players like Glenn McGrath set lasting records. These top bowlers not only changed the outcome of many games but also showed the skill, patience, and strategy required to excel at the highest level.
Each bowler’s achievements should inspire current and future cricketers, as well as fans who understand the critical role bowlers play in shaping World Cup history.
These records set high standards that every new World Cup brings closer to being challenged!
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