No Indian bowlers in the T20 World Cup’s all-time top 10? It’s a stat that’s hard to swallow amid India’s batting supremacy. Kohli rules runs, Rohit trails, but bowling honors elude as the 2026 edition rocks India-Sri Lanka venues.
Shakib Al Hasan (50 wickets/43 matches) is king. Hasaranga (40/20) vice. Afridi (39/34) podium. Rashid (38/24), Malinga (38/31) tie for fifth. Zampa (36/21), Ajmal (36/23), Southee (36/25), Nortje (35/19), Mendis (35/21) fill out 6-10.
Ashwin’s 32/24 ranks India’s highest at 13. Arshdeep (29/15, 19th) is knocking loudly, his raw pace and smarts primed for top-10, top-5 breakthroughs. Zampa, Nortje lurk similarly.
Launched in 2007 South Africa, 10 editions later, Asians own top five sans Indians. This gap demands attention. Arshdeep’s emergence—debut promise, consistent hauls—hints at redemption. Death bowling prowess sets him apart.
Tournaments demand versatility; India’s quest intensifies. Sustained excellence from Arshdeep could etch his name among legends, finally landing India in the bowling elite. Fans await the shift.