T20 World Cup history: Top three wicket-takers for Afghanistan

The ICC Men’s T20 World Cup 2026 is currently underway, running from February 7 to March 8, co-hosted by India and Sri Lanka. Afghanistan, known for their unpredictable performances and penchant for upsetting stronger teams, have faced a challenging start, losing two matches against New Zealand and South Africa. Despite these setbacks, the team has displayed remarkable resilience, fighting hard till the final overs in both games.

Afghanistan is placed in Group D alongside South Africa, New Zealand, United Arab Emirates, and Canada. The side is led by the world-class leg-spinner Rashid Khan, while the bowling attack is strengthened by the likes of Noor Ahmad, Fazalhaq Farooqi, Mohammad Nabi, Azmatullah Omarzai, and Mujeeb Ur Rahman. Afghanistan had a memorable run in the T20 World Cup 2024, reaching the semi-finals.

Here is a look at the top three wicket-takers for Afghanistan in T20 World Cup history:

Rashid Khan

Rashid Khan has been Afghanistan’s first global superstar and a key reason for their early successes in international cricket. His highly effective leg-spin has made him one of the greatest T20 bowlers ever, and a sought-after player in leagues worldwide. While not a big turner of the ball, Rashid puts batters under intense pressure with exceptional pace and accuracy. His most dangerous weapon is his googly, complemented by an array of variations.

Rashid has produced match-winning performances for Afghanistan, including a sensational 5 for 3 in a T20I against Ireland, which kept their record 11-match T20I winning streak alive, and a 7 for 18 in 2017 against West Indies, securing Afghanistan’s first ODI victory in the Caribbean. Overall, he has taken 190 wickets in T20Is, including 40 wickets in 25 World Cup games.

Mohammad Nabi

Mohammad Nabi has been the guiding force behind Afghanistan’s rise from obscurity to the international stage. He made his debut in 2008 when Afghanistan were competing in Division Five of the World Cricket League and became a central figure in the team’s journey to Test status in 2017 and their T20 World Cup semi-final appearance in 2024.

Nabi has played over 300 white-ball internationals and led Afghanistan in three T20 World Cups (2014, 2021, and 2022). His leadership and experience have been crucial, including Afghanistan’s stunning victory over Australia in the 2024 World Cup. Nabi has taken 105 wickets in his career, with 23 wickets in 32 World Cup matches.

Fazalhaq Farooqi

Fazalhaq Farooqi, a left-arm pacer capable of swinging the ball both ways, quickly became Afghanistan’s spearhead in white-ball cricket after his international debut in 2021. He is known for his pace and consistency with the new ball and has represented Afghanistan in T20Is and ODIs, as well as in franchise leagues worldwide.

By the time he played in the 2020 Under-19 World Cup in South Africa, Farooqi was already a regular in Afghanistan’s domestic circuit. He has taken 66 wickets in his career so far, including 21 in 13 T20 World Cup games, making him a crucial asset for the team.

Afghanistan squad for T20 World Cup 2026:

Rashid Khan (c), Noor Ahmad, Abdullah Ahmadzai, Sediqullah Atal, Fazalhaq Farooqi, Rahmanullah Gurbaz, Mohammad Ishaq Rahimi, Shahidullah Kamal, Mohammad Nabi, Gulbadin Naib, Azmatullah Omarzai, Mujeeb Ur Rahman, Darwish Rasooli, Ibrahim Zadran, Zia Ur Rahman Sharifi

Afghanistan schedule for T20 World Cup 2026:

Disclaimer: This Exclusive News is based on the author’s understanding, analysis, and instinct. As you review this information, consider the points mentioned and form your own conclusions.

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