Pakistan has always been a nation rich in bowling talent, especially in the fast-bowling department. Over the years, the country has produced bowlers who could swing the ball both ways, bowl at blistering speeds, and outsmart batters with crafty spin. In the fast-paced format of T20 Internationals, taking wickets is the most vital way to control the game. Whether it’s through raw pace, pinpoint yorkers, or sharp spin, Pakistan’s bowlers have always found ways to make an impact.
This article discusses the Most Wickets for Pakistan in T20Is, analyzing the top ten bowlers who have consistently helped Pakistan succeed in the shortest format. Written in simple English with fresh structures, it goes from number 10 to number 1, highlighting each bowler’s key strengths, memorable performances, and their influence on the team. Each player section also contains a stats table summarizing their T20I achievements.
List of 10 Most Wickets for Pakistan in T20Is
10. Mohammad Amir
Mohammad Amir, one of Pakistan’s most talented left-arm fast bowlers, has made a significant mark in T20 cricket. His ability to swing the new ball both ways at high speed made him a match-winner during the early stages of his career. Amir’s skill in delivering yorkers during the final overs has often broken partnerships and shifted games in Pakistan’s favor. Even after facing career challenges, his comeback proved his dedication and class. In the Most Wickets for Pakistan in T20Is list, Amir stands tall for his consistent ability to take wickets and keep the run rate under control.
| Stat | Value |
|---|---|
| Span | 2009–2024 |
| Matches | 62 |
| Runs | 1558 |
| Wickets | 71 |
| Best Bowling | 4/13 |
| Average | 21.94 |
| Economy | 7.07 |
| Strike Rate | 18.60 |
9. Hasan Ali
Hasan Ali’s name represents passion, aggression, and energy in Pakistan’s T20 bowling setup. Known for his expressive celebrations and attacking mindset, Hasan has always looked for wickets rather than just containing runs. His sharp seam movement and variations, such as slower deliveries and cutters, made him a threat in the middle overs. Despite sometimes being expensive, his knack for picking up breakthroughs at crucial times places him among the Most Wickets for Pakistan in T20Is.
| Stat | Value |
|---|---|
| Span | 2016–2025 |
| Matches | 57 |
| Runs | 1678 |
| Wickets | 72 |
| Best Bowling | 5/30 |
| Average | 23.30 |
| Economy | 8.71 |
| Strike Rate | 16.04 |
READ MORE: Top 10 Most Runs in ODI Cricket in 2025
8. Imad Wasim
Imad Wasim, the clever left-arm spinner, has been a vital part of Pakistan’s T20I setup for many years. Unlike many spinners who depend on heavy turn, Imad focused on maintaining tight lines and using the pitch to his advantage. His control in power plays was exceptional, often limiting batters from playing big shots. What made Imad unique in the Most Wickets for Pakistan in T20Is list was his ability to mix economical spells with important wickets, making him a dependable all-rounder for Pakistan.
| Stat | Value |
|---|---|
| Span | 2015–2024 |
| Matches | 75 |
| Runs | 1588 |
| Wickets | 73 |
| Best Bowling | 5/14 |
| Average | 21.75 |
| Economy | 6.20 |
| Strike Rate | 21.04 |
7. Umar Gul
When talking about the pioneers of Pakistan’s T20 bowling success, Umar Gul’s name cannot be forgotten. He was among the earliest stars who mastered T20 death bowling. His accurate yorkers and quick seam deliveries troubled even the best batters. Gul’s most iconic moments came during the 2009 T20 World Cup, where he helped Pakistan lift the trophy. His impact during the early phase of the format makes him one of the top contributors in the Most Wickets for Pakistan in T20Is list. His aggressive attitude and match-winning spells inspired the next generation of Pakistani bowlers.
| Stat | Value |
|---|---|
| Span | 2007–2016 |
| Matches | 60 |
| Runs | 1443 |
| Wickets | 85 |
| Best Bowling | 5/6 |
| Average | 16.97 |
| Economy | 7.19 |
| Strike Rate | 14.15 |
6. Saeed Ajmal
Saeed Ajmal was one of the most intelligent off-spinners Pakistan has ever produced. His mastery of the “doosra” made him unpredictable, and batters found it difficult to read him. Ajmal’s clever variations of flight, spin, and pace helped Pakistan control the game during the middle overs. He was not only economical but also highly effective in taking wickets when the team needed them the most. His name remains a highlight in the Most Wickets for Pakistan in T20Is, proving how vital quality spin bowling is in short formats.
| Stat | Value |
|---|---|
| Span | 2009–2015 |
| Matches | 64 |
| Runs | 1516 |
| Wickets | 85 |
| Best Bowling | 4/19 |
| Average | 17.83 |
| Economy | 6.36 |
| Strike Rate | 16.82 |
5. Mohammad Nawaz
Mohammad Nawaz has quietly built an impressive T20 record for Pakistan. As a left-arm spinner, he often takes on the responsibility of bowling during power plays and middle overs. His calm personality and accurate bowling have made him a dependable option in tight situations. Nawaz is one of those players who can adapt to any condition, making him a versatile choice for the team. His performances have helped him climb high in the Most Wickets for Pakistan in T20Is rankings, proving that consistent performances earn long-term rewards.
| Stat | Value |
|---|---|
| Span | 2016–2026 |
| Matches | 88 |
| Runs | 1899 |
| Wickets | 87 |
| Best Bowling | 5/19 |
| Average | 21.82 |
| Economy | 7.21 |
| Strike Rate | 18.16 |
4. Shahid Afridi
Few names in Pakistan cricket are as iconic as Shahid Afridi. Known for his explosive batting, Afridi’s leg-spin bowling was equally influential. His fast leg-breaks and clever variations allowed him to take wickets even when batters tried to attack him. Afridi’s aggression and confidence made him a nightmare for opponents, and his leadership guided Pakistan to several famous victories. He remains one of the top bowlers with the Most Wickets for Pakistan in T20Is, a testament to his all-around greatness.
| Stat | Value |
|---|---|
| Span | 2006–2016 |
| Matches | 98 |
| Runs | 2362 |
| Wickets | 97 |
| Best Bowling | 4/11 |
| Average | 24.35 |
| Economy | 6.61 |
| Strike Rate | 22.10 |
3. Shadab Khan
Shadab Khan represents the modern face of Pakistan cricket. As a leg-spinning all-rounder, Shadab has developed into one of the most reliable players for Pakistan in T20Is. His sharp googlies and quick leg-breaks make him difficult to attack. Shadab often breaks partnerships in the middle overs, helping Pakistan regain control of matches. His intelligence and tactical approach make him one of the young stars with the Most Wickets for Pakistan in T20Is. Beyond bowling, his leadership skills and fielding brilliance add even more value to the team.
| Stat | Value |
|---|---|
| Span | 2017–2026 |
| Matches | 114 |
| Runs | 2774 |
| Wickets | 114 |
| Best Bowling | 4/8 |
| Average | 24.33 |
| Economy | 7.37 |
| Strike Rate | 19.79 |
READ MORE: Top 10 Players with Most Runs WPL Batting Queens
2. Shaheen Shah Afridi
Shaheen Shah Afridi is the spearhead of Pakistan’s modern bowling attack. With his tall frame and smooth action, he generates late swing even with the new ball. Shaheen’s deadly yorkers and bouncers make him one of the most feared bowlers in T20 cricket. His early breakthroughs often set the tone for Pakistan, especially in big matches. Consistency and aggression have made him rise quickly among those with the Most Wickets for Pakistan in T20Is. Every spell he bowls reflects his hunger for improvement and domination.
| Stat | Value |
|---|---|
| Span | 2018–2025 |
| Matches | 96 |
| Runs | 2680 |
| Wickets | 126 |
| Best Bowling | 4/22 |
| Average | 21.26 |
| Economy | 7.71 |
| Strike Rate | 16.54 |
1. Haris Rauf
At the top of the list stands Haris Rauf, Pakistan’s most successful bowler in T20 Internationals. His journey from local cricket to international fame is truly inspiring. Rauf’s speed, aggression, and relentless energy make him an outstanding fast bowler. He can bowl at over 150 km/h, and his deceptive slower balls have fooled many batters. What makes Rauf special is his ability to perform under pressure — whether it’s defending small totals or bowling in the final overs. His consistent performances have placed him at number one in the Most Wickets for Pakistan in T20Is rankings, showing how vital he has become for Pakistan’s success in the format.
| Stat | Value |
|---|---|
| Span | 2020–2025 |
| Matches | 94 |
| Runs | 2807 |
| Wickets | 133 |
| Best Bowling | 4/18 |
| Average | 21.10 |
| Economy | 8.38 |
| Strike Rate | 15.10 |
Pakistan’s success in T20 Internationals has been heavily influenced by its exceptional bowlers. From the fiery pace of Umar Gul and Haris Rauf to the clever spin of Saeed Ajmal and Shadab Khan, every player on this list has contributed to making Pakistan a dangerous bowling unit. The Most Wickets for Pakistan in T20Is list not only celebrates individual achievements but also represents Pakistan’s legacy of producing world-class bowlers capable of changing the game’s direction within a few overs.
In modern T20 cricket, where every ball counts, Pakistan’s bowling attack continues to stand strong, proving that the country remains one of the best breeding grounds for bowlers who can dominate the shortest format of the game.
FAQs
1. Who has taken the most wickets for Pakistan in T20 Internationals?
Haris Rauf currently holds the record for the Most Wickets for Pakistan in T20Is. His aggressive pace, ability to bowl at any stage of the match, and consistent performances in pressure situations have helped him become Pakistan’s highest wicket-taker in T20 International cricket.
2. Why are wickets so important in T20 International cricket?
In T20 cricket, matches are short and fast-paced, so taking wickets is crucial. Wickets stop the scoring flow, create pressure on new batters, and often change the momentum of the game. This is why bowlers who feature in the Most Wickets for Pakistan in T20Is list are considered match-winners.
3. Which type of bowlers dominate the Most Wickets for Pakistan in T20Is?
Fast bowlers dominate the Most Wickets for Pakistan in T20Is list because Pakistan has traditionally produced high-quality pace bowlers. However, spinners like Saeed Ajmal, Shahid Afridi, and Shadab Khan also feature prominently, proving that spin bowling is equally effective in T20 Internationals.
4. Can current players break the record for the Most Wickets for Pakistan in T20Is in the future?
Yes, current and young players still have a strong chance to climb higher on the Most Wickets for Pakistan in T20Is list. With more T20 matches being played every year, consistent performers like Shaheen Shah Afridi and Shadab Khan could challenge or even surpass existing records if they maintain form and fitness.