NZ vs IND 2026: Top 3 wicket-takers from five-match T20I series

The five-match T20I series between New Zealand and India in 2026-27 showcased contrasting bowling approaches from three standout performers. Mitchell Santner of New Zealand emerged as the leading wicket-taker with 9 wickets, while India’s Arshdeep Singh and New Zealand’s Adam Milne each claimed 6 wickets across the contest. The series, which concluded in late October 2026, demonstrated how closely matched the two teams were in their bowling depth and execution.

India won the series 3-2, yet the bowling statistics reveal the competitive nature of the five encounters. The top three wicket-takers from the series represent a mix of spin and pace bowling, highlighting the variety both teams deployed throughout the contest. Santner’s 9-wicket haul placed him clear at the top of the bowling charts, with his superior strike rate and lower average demonstrating greater consistency in taking wickets throughout the series.

Here are 3 bowlers Most wickets in the T20I series:

3. Adam Milne

Adam Milne also claimed 6 wickets from 5 matches and 5 innings, from 120 balls bowled over 20 overs with no maidens conceded. He gave away 189 runs at an average of 31.50 runs per wicket, with an economy rate of 9.45 runs per over and a strike rate of 20.00 balls per wicket. His best bowling performance in an innings was 1 wicket, with a highest individual return of 19 runs conceded.

2. Arshdeep Singh

Arshdeep Singh took 6 wickets from 4 matches and 4 innings, bowling 130 balls across 13 overs with no maidens conceded. He conceded 78 runs at an average of 13 runs per wicket, maintaining an economy rate of 10.00 runs per over and a strike rate of 21.66 balls per wicket. His best bowling performance was 2 wickets in an innings, with a highest individual return of 33 runs conceded.

1. Mitchell Santner

Mitchell Santner claimed 9 wickets across 5 matches and 5 innings, bowling 140 balls over 23 overs with no maidens conceded. He gave away 189 runs at an average of 21 runs per wicket, with an economy rate of 7.36 runs per over and a strike rate of 12.66 balls per wicket. His best bowling performance in an innings was 4 wickets, and he took a single five-wicket haul during the series.

Conclusion

Singh and Milne’s matching tally of 6 wickets each reflected their contributions across the contest, though their different match participation and bowling patterns highlighted contrasting approaches to the series. Singh’s lower average of 13 runs per wicket compared to Milne’s 31.50 demonstrated greater efficiency in dismissing batsmen, whilst Milne’s participation in all five matches showed consistent selection by New Zealand. Santner’s ability to bowl more overs and maintain a lower economy rate than both Singh and Milne underscored his value as the series’ most effective bowler.