Top 5 Bowlers with Most Wickets in Champions Trophy History

Unveil the legends of Champions Trophy cricket! Meet the top 5 bowlers who dominated the tournament with their incredible wicket-taking abilities and unforgettable performances. Stay updated with ScoreWaves for latest sports updates and fastest score

Top 5 Bowlers with Most Wickets in Champions Trophy History Till 2017  

The ICC Champions Trophy has always been one of the most thrilling cricket tournaments, bringing together the top cricketing nations for a battle of skill, strategy, and determination. Over the years, many legendary bowlers have showcased their brilliance in this tournament, delivering match-winning performances and leaving a lasting impression on fans worldwide. In this blog, we take a look at the top 5 bowlers with the most wickets in Champions Trophy history and their remarkable contributions to their teams. 

1. Kyle Mills (New Zealand)

Matches Played: 15 

Wickets Taken: 28 

Best Bowling Figures: 4/30 

Bowling Average: 17.25 

Kyle Mills stands tall as the leading wicket-taker in Champions Trophy history. The New Zealand pacer was known for his consistency, swing, and ability to deliver breakthroughs in crucial moments. Mills played a vital role in New Zealand’s campaigns, particularly in the 2009 edition, where the Black Caps reached the final. His ability to extract movement in both the early overs and during the death made him a formidable opponent for batsmen. 

One of Mills' standout performances came against Sri Lanka in the 2009 edition, where he bowled a spellbinding 4/30, dismantling the opposition’s top order. His contributions remain a key part of New Zealand’s Champions Trophy legacy. 

2. Muttiah Muralitharan (Sri Lanka)

Matches Played: 17 

Wickets Taken: 24 

Best Bowling Figures: 4/15

Bowling Average: 20.04 

The legendary Sri Lankan spinner Muttiah Muralitharan holds the second spot on this prestigious list. With his magical off-spin and unparalleled ability to deceive batsmen, Murali was a nightmare for opposition teams. Over the course of his Champions Trophy career, he consistently delivered for Sri Lanka, especially on subcontinental pitches that suited his bowling style. 

Murali’s best performance came against the Netherlands in the 2002 edition, where he took 4/15. His wicket-taking prowess and ability to bowl economically made him one of the most feared bowlers in the tournament’s history. 

3. Lasith Malinga (Sri Lanka)

 

Matches Played: 13 

Wickets Taken: 22 

Best Bowling Figures: 4/34 

Bowling Average: 24.27 

Known for his deadly yorkers and unorthodox bowling action, Lasith Malinga is one of the most iconic fast bowlers to grace the Champions Trophy. The Sri Lankan pacer consistently delivered during high-pressure situations, making him an invaluable asset for his team. Malinga’s ability to bowl toe-crushing yorkers and pick up wickets in the death overs set him apart from the rest. 

One of his best spells came against New Zealand in the 2013 edition, where he took 4/34. Malinga’s knack for breaking partnerships and controlling the game’s tempo earned him immense respect from cricket fans and players alike. 

4. Shane Bond (New Zealand)

Matches Played: 11 

Wickets Taken: 21 

Best Bowling Figures: 6/19 

Bowling Average: 17.66 

Shane Bond, New Zealand’s fiery fast bowler, was a force to be reckoned with in the Champions Trophy. His lethal pace, ability to generate bounce, and pinpoint accuracy made him a nightmare for batsmen. Despite his career being plagued by injuries, Bond’s performances in the Champions Trophy were nothing short of phenomenal. 

His career-best figures of 6/19 came against Australia in the 2002 edition, a spell that is still remembered as one of the greatest in Champions Trophy history. Bond’s contributions were crucial in establishing New Zealand as a competitive force in the tournament. 

5. Zaheer Khan (India)

Matches Played: 14 

Wickets Taken: 21 

Best Bowling Figures: 4/45 

Bowling Average: 25.90 

Zaheer Khan, India’s left-arm pacer, was a cornerstone of the team’s bowling attack in the Champions Trophy. Renowned for his ability to swing the ball both ways and execute clever variations, Zaheer was a match-winner for India on numerous occasions. His performances in the Champions Trophy showcased his mastery over different conditions and batting line-ups. 

Zaheer’s best performance came in the 2000 edition, where he delivered a crucial spell of 4/45 against South Africa. His contributions were instrumental in India’s journey to the finals in 2000 and their overall success in the tournament. 

Conclusion

The ICC Champions Trophy has witnessed some of the finest bowling performances in cricket history, with these five bowlers leaving an indelible mark on the tournament. Their ability to rise to the occasion and deliver match-winning spells not only brought glory to their teams but also enriched the legacy of the Champions Trophy. 

As cricket fans, we celebrate these legendary bowlers for their skill, dedication, and passion for the game. Their remarkable achievements serve as a reminder of why the Champions Trophy remains one of the most cherished tournaments in the cricketing calendar. With each edition, new talents emerge, but the legacy of these top wicket-takers will continue to inspire future generations of cricketers. 

Also Read: Most Runs in Champions Trophy History