The stage is set for cricketing greatness as the ODI World Cup 2023 approaches, scheduled to commence on October 5th, 2023. As cricket aficionados brace themselves for the upcoming action, let’s take a moment to celebrate the bowlers who have etched their names in the annals of World Cup history. In this piece, we shine a spotlight on the top five leading wicket-takers who have left an indelible mark on cricket’s grandest stage.
Top 5 leading wicket-takers in ODI World Cup history
1. Glenn McGrath (Australia)
Span: 1996-2007 | Matches: 39 | Innings: 39 | Wickets: 71 | Best Bowling: 7/15 | Average: 18.19
Glenn McGrath, the metronome of Australian cricket, is the epitome of relentless accuracy and unwavering consistency. In his 39 World Cup matches, he scalped a remarkable 71 wickets, including a mind-boggling spell of 7/15. McGrath’s miserly economy rate of 3.96 and an average of 18.19 make him the leading wicket-taker in World Cup history, setting an imposing standard for generations to come.
2. Muttiah Muralidaran (Sri Lanka)
Span: 1996-2011 | Matches: 40 | Innings: 39 | Wickets: 68 | Best Bowling: 4/19 | Average: 19.63
Muttiah Muralidaran, the wizard of spin, weaved his magic in four World Cup editions. His bag of 68 wickets in 39 innings, at an average of 19.63, solidified his status as one of the greatest spinners of all time. Murali’s ability to spin a web around batsmen made him a force to be reckoned with in World Cup cricket.
3. Lasith Malinga (Sri Lanka)
Span: 2007-2019 | Matches: 29 | Innings: 28 | Wickets: 56 | Best Bowling: 6/38 | Average: 22.87
Lasith Malinga, known for his toe-crushing yorkers and deadly variations, has been a lethal weapon for Sri Lanka in World Cup battles. His 56 wickets in 28 innings came at an impressive average of 22.87. Malinga’s ability to deliver under pressure, as evidenced by his remarkable 6/38, makes him a true match-winner on the global stage.
4. Wasim Akram (Pakistan)
Span: 1987-2003 | Matches: 38 | Innings: 36 | Wickets: 55 | Best Bowling: 5/28 | Average: 23.83
Wasim Akram, the Sultan of Swing, graced five World Cup tournaments with his exceptional skills. His 55 wickets in 36 innings, at an average of 23.83, underline his ability to swing the ball both ways and dismantle opposition batting line-ups. Akram’s 5/28 remains etched in World Cup history as a symbol of his mastery over the art of swing bowling.
5. Mitchell Starc (Australia)
Span: 2015-2019 | Matches: 18 | Innings: 18 | Wickets: 49 | Best Bowling: 6/28 | Average: 14.81
Mitchell Starc, the modern-day speedster, unleashed his fury on the World Cup stage during the 2015 and 2019 editions. His 49 wickets in 18 matches, at a jaw-dropping average of 14.81, reflect his ability to deliver express pace and deadly yorkers. Starc’s unforgettable spell of 6/28 is a testament to his ability to single-handedly dismantle opposition batting line-ups.
As the cricketing world gears up for the ODI World Cup 2023, these bowling maestros from the past continue to inspire with their extraordinary feats. The upcoming tournament promises to witness new bowling legends emerge, adding to the illustrious history of the World Cup.
