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Bowlers with a five-wicket haul in the T20 World Cup

A five-wicket haul is something that a bowler always dreams of achieving. Mujeeb Ur Rahman of Afghanisthan registered his name on this list.

Oct 26, 2021, 8:23 AM5 min read

A five-wicket haul is something that a bowler always dreams of achieving sometime in his career. Scalping a five-wicket haul is definitely strenuous but playing with the proper momentum and enthusiasm yields the best results. Many legendary bowlers achieved this prestigious feat in T20 World Cup. Just a day prior, Mujeeb Ur Rahman of Afghanisthan registered his name on this list. Here SpotzPoint.com lets you know about all the bowlers with a five-wicket haul in the T20 World Cup.

1. Mujeeb Ur Rahman

Mujeeb Ur Rahman: Bowlers with a five-wicket haul in the T20 World Cup | SportzPoint.com
Image Credit- ESPNcricinfo

In Mujeeb Ur Rahman's debut T20 World Cup match, he accounted for the wickets of five cricketers of Scotland. He bowled four overs and gave 20 runs along with 5 wickets. In the 4th over, he sent Kyle Coetzer, Calum MacLeod, Richie Berrington back to the pavilion. Next in the 6th over and 8th over, he took the wicket of George Munsey and Mark Wat respectively.

2. Mustafizur Rahman

Mustafizur Rahman: Bowlers with a five-wicket haul in the T20 World Cup | SportzPoint.com
Image Credit- Getty Images

On 26 March 2016, Eden Gardens hosted the T20 world cup match of Bangladesh vs New Zealand. Mustafizur Rahman was an absolute delight to watch on that day but unfortunately, Bangladesh lost the match. Mustafizur impressed everyone with his bowling skills and dismissed the strong batting lineup of New Zealand. Firstly he sent the openers Henry Nicholas and Kane Williamson and then continued picking the wickets of Grant Elliott, Mitchell Santner, and Nathan McCullum. Throughout his T20 World Cup journey, he played in 3 matches. In these 3 matches, he showed good performance and picked up 9 wickets with a bowling average of 9.55 and an economy rate of 7.16.

Read also: Most fifties in T20 World Cup history

3. James Faulkner

James Faulkner: The Australian international cricketer who plays domestic cricket for Tasmania | SportzPoint.com
Image Credit- Getty Images

James Faulkner, the man of the match of the 26th match of the 2016 T20 World Cup between Australia and Pakistan, was a vision to watch for that day. The Australian bowler bowled aggressively and took the important 5 wickets of Sharjeel Khan, Khalid Latif, Imad Wasim, Sarfaraz Ahmed, and lastly Wahab Riaz. Also, he featured in 5 T20 World Cup matches where he picked up 8 wickets in 16.5 overs with a bowling average of 16.62 an economy rate of 7.9.

4. Ahsan malik

Ahsan Malik:  Bowlers with a five-wicket haul in the T20 World Cup | SportzPoint.com
Image Credit- Getty Images

In the 21st Match of the 2014 T20 World Cup, Ahsan Malik of the Netherlands showed class performance by picking up some crucial wickets of South Africa. On that day, he sent the opener Hashim Amla back to the pavilion. He continued his innings by picking up the wickets of Albie Morkel, David Miller, Dale Steyn, and Beuran Hendricks. Overall he featured in 9 T20 World Cup matches and bowled 25.5 overs to take 12 wickets with a bowling average of 14.25 and an economy rate of 6.61.

Read also: T20 Records: Top 5 highest run scorers in T20s

5. Rangana Herath

Rangana Herath:  Bowlers with a five-wicket haul in the T20 World Cup | SportzPoint.com
Image Credit- Getty Images

The cricket World witnessed a 5 wicket haul on 31st March 2014. The Sri Lankan bowler Rangana Herath is the cricketer behind his achievement against New Zealand. Herath showed a spectacular performance by dismissing a few of the most vital cricketers of New Zealand. He was accounted for the wickets of Brendon McCullum, Ross Taylor, James Neesham, Luke Ronchi, and lastly Trent Boult. The Sri Lankan team dismissed New Zealand at only 60 runs and won the match by 59 runs.

6. Ajantha Mendis

Ajantha Mendis:  The former Sri Lankan cricketer | SportzPoint.com
Image Credit- Getty Images

Next on the list is Ajantha Mendis, and he achieved this feat against Zimbabwe on 18 September 2012 T20 World Cup. On that day Mendis picked up a total of 6 wickets of Hamilton Masakadza, Vusi Sibanda, Brendan Taylor, Elton Chigumbura, Prosper Utseya, and Kyle Jarvis. He broke the entire lineup of top-order batters unassisted and contributed the most to win the match by 82 runs.

Read also: Most sixes in T20 Internationals by a batsman: Cricket Records

7. Umar Gul

Umar Gul:  Bowlers with a five-wicket haul in the T20 World Cup | SportzPoint.com
Image Credit- Rediffmail

In the 18th match of the 2009 T20 World Cup, Umar Gul took a 5 wicket haul against New Zealand. 13 June 2009 was the date and Pakistan definitely won the match by 6 wickets. Umar Gul played brilliantly and also became the man of the match. He single-handedly broke the middle order of New Zealand and picked up the wickets of Scott Styris, Peter McGlashan, Nathan McCullum, James Franklin, and Kyle Mills. He gave only 6 runs during doing the wonders on the field that day.

8. Lasith Malinga

Lasith Malinga:  Bowlers with a five-wicket haul in the T20 World Cup | SportzPoint.com
Image Credit- Cricbuzz

The veteran Sri Lankan bowler is not only the cricketer with the 5 wicket haul but also the third-highest wicket-taker in T20 World Cup history. In 31 appearances, the right arm pacer picked up 38 wickets. These massive number of wickets also include a 5 wicket haul against England. With an economy rate of 7.43 and a bowling average of 16.2, he picked up the wickets of Luke Wright, Alex Hales, Jonny Bairstow, Sameer Patel, and Jos Buttler.

Read also: T20 world cup 2021: Most T20i wickets

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Best Bowling Figures in Asia Cup T20I

Kuldeep yadav registered the second best bowling figures in Asia Cup T20I. In this article, we will take a look the other bowlers with best bowling figures in Asia Cup T20I.

Sep 11, 2025, 12:14 PM3 min read

Best Bowling Figures in Asia Cup T20I

The Indian cricket team, captained by Suryakumar Yadav, has started its campaign in Asia Cup 2025 in a bang. Team India registered its first win by defeating UAE by 9 wickets in the match played in Dubai.

Bowling first, Team India bundled out UAE for just 57 runs in 13.1 overs thanks to Kuldeep Yadav's charismatic bowling and achieved the target of 58 runs in 4.3 overs with 9 wickets and 93 balls to spare.

Kuldeep Yadav bowled brilliantly in the match and was credited with the team's victory. He wreaked havoc with his spin against UAE and set the record for the best bowling performance as a spinner in the T20 Asia Cup. He also registered the second best bowling figures in Asia Cup T20I.

In this article, we will take a look the other bowlers with best bowling figures in Asia Cup T20I.

Also Read: Past results of India vs Pakistan in Asia Cup

Best Bowling Figures in Asia Cup T20I

5. Lasith Malinga | 4/26 vs UAE (2016)

Best Bowling Figures in Asia Cup T20I

Known for his deadly yorkers and unique action, Lasith Malinga showed his class once again during the 2016 Asia Cup. Against the UAE, he claimed 4 wickets while giving away 26 runs. Malinga’s early strikes ensured Sri Lanka stayed on top in the points table, proving why he was one of the best T20 bowlers in the world. 

4. Mohammad Nabi | 4/17 vs Hong Kong (2016)

Best Bowling Figures in Asia Cup T20I

Afghanistan’s veteran all-rounder Mohammad Nabi has been a match-winner with both bat and ball. In the 2016 Asia Cup qualifiers, he produced a crucial spell against Hong Kong, finishing with 4/17. His performance helped Afghanistan dominate the match and secure their place in the main event. 

3. Shadab Khan | 4/8 vs Hong Kong (2022)

Best Bowling Figures in Asia Cup T20I

Star Pakistan leg-spinner Shadab Khan recorded incredible figures of 4/8 against Hong Kong in the 2022 affair in Sharjah. Chasing a massive 194, Hong Kong never got going as Shadab dismantled their batting order. The leg-spinner's googly proved unplayable as Hong Kong were folded for just 38 in 10.4 overs. Shadab finished with 4/8 from 2.4 overs.

2. Kuldeep Yadav | 4/7 vs UAE (2025)

Best Bowling Figures in Asia Cup T20I

Playing his first match for India after half a year, Kuldeep Yadav returned figures of 4/7 to lead holders India to a crushing nine-wicket win over hosts UAE in their opening match of the Asia Cup.

Kuldeep was introduced in the seventh over. The wrist-spinner hammered UAE in the next over, dismissing Rahul Chopra, Muhammad Waseem, and Harshit Kaushik. Kuldeep then finished the UAE innings by dismissing Haider Ali. The spinner's 4/7 saw him get to 73 wickets in T20Is from 41 matches. This was his second four-fer in T20Is. He also owns two five-wicket hauls.

Also Read: Highest Wicket Taker in Asia Cup History (ODI + T20)

1. Bhuvneshwar Kumar | 5/4 vs Afghanistan (2022)

Best Bowling Figures in Asia Cup T20I

Veteran Indian pacer Bhuvneshwar Kumar leads the list of best bowling figures in Asia Cup T20I, who was unplayable against Afghanistan in the 2022 Asia Cup match in Dubai. Bhuvi is the only bowler to take five wickets in an innings in the Asia Cup played in T20 format. He also holds the record of the highest wicket in the Asia Cup played in T20I format.

India batted first and posted a mammoth 212/2. However, it was Bhuvneshwar who stole the show with his fiery bowling display. He took four wickets in the Powerplay and ended up with career-best figures of 5/4 in four overs.

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ICC tournaments hosted by India – History & Highlights

With India getting ready to host the ICC Women's World Cup 2025, here is the history and highlights from all the ICC tournaments hosted by India. India could lift the title only once at home.

Sep 8, 2025, 8:04 AM7 min read

ICC tournaments hosted by India – History & Highlights - 1997 Women's World Cup - sportzpoint.com
Australia Women's won three World Cup titles hosted by India. Image | Getty Images via ESPNCricinfo

India is a nation where cricket is not just a sport but a religion. The crowd, the stadiums, and most importantly, the passion for cricket that the vibrant atmosphere brings, have made every ICC tournament hosted on Indian soil unforgettable.

Therefore, when it comes to hosting ICC tournaments, India delivers an experience like no other.

This article will take you through the history and highlights of ICC tournaments hosted by India that captivated millions.

ICC Men's Cricket World Cup

ICC tournaments hosted by India – History & Highlights | sportzpoint.com
India lifts the ICC World Cup for the second time in 2011 after a victory over Sri Lanka. Image | Mint

The ICC Men's Cricket World Cup, inaugurated in 1975, has had 13 seasons so far. Out of which, India hosted the tournament 4 times, in the years: 1987, 1996, 2011, 2023. They are also scheduled to host the 2031 season, alongside Bangladesh.

Here's the detailed highlight of each year:

1987: First edition in India, co-hosted with Pakistan

ICC tournaments hosted by India – History & Highlights - 1987 World Cup | sportzpoint.com
Australia won the 1987 World Cup. Image | Chris Cole/Allsport

The 1987 Cricket World Cup was the first time the tournament was held outside England. It was known as the "Reliance Cup" due to sponsorship and was also the first 50-over WC, reduced from 60 overs in previous editions.

Co-hosted with Pakistan, India topped the group stage and had a great season. However, they were eliminated in the semi-finals by England at the Wankhede Stadium, Mumbai.

The Final was played at the iconic Eden Gardens, Kolkata, between Australia and England. Australia won their first title and lifted the World Cup with pride on Indian soil.

1996: Second edition with co-hosts Pakistan and Sri Lanka

1996 Cricket World Cup semi-final at Eden Gardens was abrupted by fans | sportzpoint.com
1996 Cricket World Cup semi-final at Eden Gardens was abrupted by fans. Image | ESPNCricinfo

This edition was hosted by India, along with Pakistan and Sri Lanka. India faced a controversial semi-final defeat against Sri Lanka at Eden Gardens, Kolkata. It was caused due to crowd disturbance and India's collapsing run chase, which ultimately led to the game being abandoned.

Sri Lanka won their first World Cup title by defeating Australia and became the first co-host to do so.

2011: India's home triumph

ICC tournaments hosted by India – History & Highlights - 2011 World Cup - sportzpoint.com
India lifted the Cricket World Cup after 28 years. Image | cricbuzz.com

Co-hosted with Sri Lanka and Bangladesh, this was India's ultimate dream and crowning moment. Led by MS Dhoni, India had a dominant campaign and went on to win the World Cup, defeating Sri Lanka in a memorable final.

India became the first team to win the World Cup on home soil. The fact that the final match was held at Wankhede Stadium, Mumbai, makes it even more special. The roar of the crowd, legendary performances, and the winning six will be forever etched in the hearts of millions.

The final was also the first time two Asian teams played against each other in the tournament's history.

Read Also: India's 2011 World Cup winning squad: Where are they now?

2023: India's unfulfilled dream and heartbreak on home soil

ICC tournaments hosted by India – History & Highlights

As the sole host, India delivered a spectacular performance throughout the tournament. They dominated every opponent in the group stage and the semi-final, without losing a single match across all venues.

However, despite their brilliant efforts, they lost to the Australian side in the final, held at the world's largest stadium, Narendra Modi Stadium, Ahmedabad. This was a major heartbreak for the team and fans, who dreamed of a home victory after 12 years.

Virat Kohli was named the player of the tournament, setting a new record for most runs in a single WC edition, and Mohammed Shami was the leading wicket-taker.

ICC Men's T20 World Cup

India has formally hosted the ICC Men's T20 World Cup twice. Here's a summary of those tournaments:

2016: A carnival of T20 cricket on Indian soil

ICC tournaments hosted by India – History & Highlights | sportzpoint.com
An emotional Virat Kohli walkes off the field after their semi-final defeat against West Indies. Image | ESPNcricinfo

India battled through every match brilliantly in the season with a great squad. However, their journey ended in the semi-final with a high-scoring loss against the West Indies at the Wankhede Stadium, Mumbai.

This season was a special one and delivered many dramatic, nail-biting encounters. The final match, held at Eden Gardens, Kolkata, is also popular for its thrilling finish, where Carlos Brathwaite hit four consecutive sixes to seal the victory for WI against England.

Read Also: Who scored the fastest century in T20 World Cups?

2021: India's hostship amidst global challenges (Held in UAE & Oman)

Although India was the designated host, the tournament was moved to the UAE and Oman due to the prevailing COVID-19 situation in India. They also had a disappointing campaign, failing to qualify for the semi-finals.

ICC Men's Champions Trophy

India officially hosted the ICC Men's Champions Trophy once, in 2006, and is set to host the 2029 edition.

2006: India's first and only edition as hosts

ICC tournaments hosted by India – History & Highlights | sportzpoint.com
Rahul Dravid and Ricky Ponting shaking hands before a match in 2006 Champions Trophy. Image | NewsBytes

This was the fifth edition of the Champions Trophy and the first time India had the sole hosting rights. They had a disappointing start to the season and failed to progress beyond the group stage, leading to an early exit.

The tournament featured 10 teams, and the Australian side, led by Ricky Ponting, emerged as champions.

ICC Women's Cricket World Cup

India has hosted the ICC Women's Cricket World Cup 3 times, in the years 1978, 1997, and 2013. They are also scheduled to co-host the 2025 season.

Read Also: ICC Women's Cricket World Cup 2025 Full Schedule announced; India to face Pakistan on October 5

1978: The inaugural WC on Indian soil

This was India's debut World Cup appearance as well as the first time hosting the tournament. They lost all three matches against Australia, England, and New Zealand in the round-robin format, and finished fourth (last).

This was the first time the tournament was being hosted outside England. 

1997: A record-breaking season in India

ICC tournaments hosted by India – History & Highlights - 1997 Women's World Cup - sportzpoint.com
Australian capatain Blenda Clrake and her teammates running a victory lap after winning the 1997 Women's World Cup at Eden Gardens, Kolkata. Image | Getty Images via ESPNCricinfo

This was the largest Women's World Cup at that time, featuring 11 teams and 32 matches across various venues in India. India put up a strong fight, but was defeated by Australia in the semis.

The final at Eden Gardens attracted a significant crowd, showcasing the growing interest in women's cricket. Australia won their fourth Women's World Cup title, beating New Zealand, and their second on Indian soil.

2013: India's early exit in the home tournament

ICC tournaments hosted by India – History & Highlights | sportzpoint.com
Australia lifting their 6th WC title with their win in 2013 World Cup. Image | Olympics.com

This edition saw several close matches throughout the group stage. India, as hosts, had a disappointing campaign and failed to go beyond the group stage. Yet again, Australia secured their sixth WC title, and the 3rd on Indian soil.

ICC Women's T20 World Cup

The ICC Women's T20 World Cup, organised in 2009, has been conducted for 9 seasons so far. India has hosted the tournament once, in 2016.

2016: A global showcase of women's T20 cricket in India

ICC tournaments hosted by India – History & Highlights | sportzpoint.com
WI-W lifting the 2016 T20 World Cup trophy. Image | ESPNcricinfo

This tournament, held alongside the Men's T20 World Cup, served as a significant platform. India had a challenging season, winning only a single match against Bangladesh and losing the remaining ones.

West Indies emerged as champions in an intense final against Australia and lifted their first T20 World Cup title.

Read Also: Top 10 fastest centuries in Women's T20Is

Upcoming ICC tournaments to be hosted by India:

Year Tournament Co-host
2025 Women's ODI World Cup Sri Lanka
2026 Men's T20 World Cup Sri Lanka
2029 Men's Champions Trophy -
2031 Men's ODI World Cup Bangladesh

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Highest Wicket Taker in Asia Cup History (ODI + T20)

With the Asia Cup 2025 right around the corner, let's have a look at the highest wicket taker in Asia Cup history.

Aug 14, 2025, 12:03 PM5 min read

Highest Wicket Taker in Asia Cup History (ODI + T20)

Asia Cup 2025 will be held in UAE from 9 to 28 September. Due to T20 World Cup 2026, this time Asia Cup will also be organized in T20 format. India is being seen as the biggest contender in the Asia Cup this time.

Over the years, there have been many bowlers who have made a significant impact for their sides in the Asia Cup and are even featured in the list of highest wicket taker in Asia Cup history. Players like Muthiah Muralidaran, Lasith Malinga and many more are certified legends for their sides, and they fully deserve the status after their brilliant bowling performances over the years.

With the Asia Cup 2025 right around the corner, let's have a look at the highest wicket taker in Asia Cup history.

Also Read: Highest Run Scorer in Asia Cup History (ODI + T20)

Highest Wicket Taker in Asia Cup History | ODI Format

1. Muthiah Muralidaran

Highest Wicket Taker in Asia Cup History (ODI + T20)

Muthiah Muralidaran is considered to be one of the greatest bowlers in the history of cricket. He has picked up 30 wickets in 24 Asia Cup matches at an economy of 3.75 and an average of 28.83. He was part of Sri Lanka’s Asia Cup titles wins in 1997, 2004 and 2008.

2. Lasith Malinga

Highest Wicket Taker in Asia Cup History (ODI + T20)

Lasith Malinga is second on the list of best bowlers in Asia Cup history. He has been one of Sri Lanka's greatest pacers, especially in white-ball cricket. Malinga played in 5 editions from 2004 to 2018 and took 29 wickets at an economy of 4.65 and an average of 20.55. He finished as the highest wicket-taker in the 2010 and 2014 editions and won the Asia Cup in 2004 and 2014.

3. Ajantha Mendis

Highest Wicket Taker in Asia Cup History (ODI + T20)

Former Sri Lanka mystery spinner Ajantha Mendis is third on the list. Mendis took 26 wickets in just 8 matches from 2008 to 2014 at an economy of 3.98 and an average of 10.42. He was the highest wicket-taker at the 2008 edition and helped Sri Lanka to the Asia Cup titles in 2008 and 2014.

4. Saeed Ajmal

Highest Wicket Taker in Asia Cup History (ODI + T20)

Saeed Ajmal is the only non-Sri Lankan bowler in the top 5 bowlers with the most wickets in Asia Cup history. Ajmal took 25 wickets in 12 matches between 2008 and 2014 at an average of 19.25 and an economy rate of 4.21. He was part of Pakistan’s Asia Cup-winning team in 2012.

5. Ravindra Jadeja

Highest Wicket Taker in Asia Cup History (ODI + T20)

India's star all-rounder Ravindra Jadeja completes the top 5 list of the bowlers with most wickets in the Asia Cup. He played in the 2010 to 2023 editions of the Asia Cup so far and took 25 wickets at an average of 26.28 and an economy rate of 4.34. 

Also Read: Asia Cup 2025 date announced; BCCI yet to confirm participation against Pakistan

Highest Wicket Taker in Asia Cup History | T20 Format

1. Bhuvneshwar Kumar

Highest Wicket Taker in Asia Cup History (ODI + T20)

The top wicket-taker in Asia Cup T20 history is India’s pacer Bhuvneshwar Kumar, who has scalped 13 wickets in six matches at an impressive average of 9.46. The 35-year-old, who is currently not part of India’s squad, is also known for his skillful death and new ball bowling.

Bhuvi has an excellent economy rate of only 5.34 and is the only bowler to take a five-wicket haul in the shorter edition of the tournament. The right-arm medium pacer’s best figures of 5/4 — also his T20I best, came against Afghanistan in the 2022 edition of the tournament.

2. Amjad Javed

Highest Wicket Taker in Asia Cup History (ODI + T20)

The second-highest wicket-taker of this list is Amjad Javed of the United Arab Emirates (UAE), who has featured only in the 2016 edition of the tournament, where he led the team. In the only edition he played in this format, he has taken 12 wickets in seven matches at an average of 14.08.

The 45-year-old has a relatively higher economy rate of 7.34 as compared to Bhuvneshwar Kumar. Javed’s best bowling figures in an innings came against Sri Lanka during the inaugural edition of the T20I format of the Asia Cup. The right-arm pacer took three wickets for 25 runs to record his best figures in the tournament.

3. Mohammad Naveed

Highest Wicket Taker in Asia Cup History (ODI + T20)

The third-highest wicket-taker in the event’s history is also the UAE’s Mohammad Naveed, with 11 wickets to his name in seven matches. Like Amjad Javed, he made only one appearance during the 2016 Asia Cup, where his team advanced after playing qualifying rounds.

The 38-year-old has an excellent average of 13.18 with a reasonable economy rate of 5.24. Naveed’s best bowling figures of 3-14 came against Hong Kong in 2016. With his bowling performance, the UAE restricted Hong Kong to 146-7 in their 20 overs. In reply, the UAE successfully chased down the total and won by nine wickets.

4. Rashid Khan

Highest Wicket Taker in Asia Cup History (ODI + T20)

Afghanistan spin wizard Rashid Khan has taken 161 wickets in just 96 T20Is for Afghanistan and is the leading wicket taker in T20 cricket. However, he is unlikely to be fourth on the list by his standards. He has so far taken 11 wickets despite playing eight matches, a number higher than all the top three bowlers.

The leg-spinner has an average of 18.36 and boasts a slightly higher economy rate of 6.51. His best figures of 3-22 came against Bangladesh in 2022, resulting in a thrilling victory over the Tigers.

5. Hardik Pandya

Highest Wicket Taker in Asia Cup History (ODI + T20)

India all-rounder Hardik Pandya is fifth on the list. The right-arm pacer has scalped 11 wickets in eight matches so far, with an average of 18.81 and the highest economy rate of (7.01) among the top five bowlers.

Notably, his best figures of 3-8 against arch-rivals Pakistan during the 2016 edition. Thanks to Hardik Pandya’s bowling, India bundled out Pakistan for a modest total of 83 and successfully chased it down in 15.3 overs.

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Italy’s Journey to the T20 World Cup Goes Back to 1899 and AC Milan

Italy has achieved an unexpected feat by qualifying for the T20 World Cup 2026. While Italy in the T20 World Cup still sounds surreal, the game of cricket in Italy isn't as random as you'd think. Discover the nation's surprising history here.

Jul 12, 2025, 2:30 PM3 min read

Italy in the T20 World Cup — still sounds surreal | sportzpoint.com

Italy has truly made the unexpected happen, conquering what many considered impossible. Their recently qualification for the 2026 T20 World Cup, set to be co-hosted by India and Sri Lanka, marks a historic first for the nation.

A majority of people associate Italy with football, disregarding the thought of cricket being their forte. Football is the major sport that comes to one's mind when the discussion is about Italy, just like pasta. Therefore, the nation's first-ever qualification for the T20 World Cup broke the internet in no time.

While Italy in the T20 World Cup still sounds surreal, the game of cricket has a surprisingly deep and often overlooked historical ties to the country.

Explore the stunning history of cricket in Italy and their correlation with football as a sport.

Read Also: ICC Anounces Venue and Key Dates for The ICC Women's T20 World Cup 2026 England

Cricket in Italy: A Hidden History!

Italy in the T20 World Cup — still sounds surreal | sportzpoint.com

The first time cricket was even mentioned in Italy was way back in 1973. That's over 230 years ago, when a match was played among Admiral Horatio Nelson's sailors when they stopped at Naples.

Then, about a century later, Englishmen living and working in Italy, especially around busy port cities, started establishing cricket clubs. Around the end of the 19th century, several combined cricket and football clubs were formed, but they soon forgot about cricket and emphasised football to make it reach the highest level.

Read Also | Most Iconic Rivalries in European Football Leagues: History & Stats

One of the most striking examples is AC Milan, the Italian football club that recently celebrated its 125th anniversary. They were founded in 1899 as the Milan Cricket and Football Club by Englishmen, with cricket actually coming first in their name.

Another example is the oldest Italian football club, Genoa CFC, which was also founded as the Genoa Cricket and Football Club.

Thus, no matter how surreal the qualification of Italy in the T20 World Cup might sound, their deep-rooted history is a clear indication of cricket actually coming first in their nation. The game is not just a fluke, but built on a foundation that's far richer and older than most people realise!

Read Also: ICC Trophy winners list year-wise (2000-2025)

Italy heading to the World Cup 2026

Italy in the T20 World Cup — still sounds surreal | sportzpoint.com
Italy celebrates their T20 World Cup 2026 qualification. Image | Instagram

Italy national cricket team is currently ranked 32nd in the ICC T20I ranking. Starting from 2012, they appeared in the T20 World Cup qualifiers 4 times, and this was the first time ever they made it to the top 2, securing their T20 World Cup 2026 spot.

The team fought so hard in the European Qualifiers that even after losing their last match to the Netherlands, they managed to qualify for the T20 World Cup 2026, based on their high net run rate.

This amazing achievement really shows how cricket as a game has evolved in Italy and how determined their team is to make it big this time.

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Who scored the fastest century in T20 World Cups?

Who scored the fastest century in T20 World Cups? Explore the top records and Chris Gayle's sole dominance in this electrifying list of players with quickest ton.

Jun 24, 2025, 2:13 PM5 min read

Who scored the fastest century in T20 World Cups? | sportzpoint.com

Players with the ability to go big in the shortest format, like T20 and the grandest stage, like the World Cup, are something special. Over the years, we have witnessed several rapid-fire hundreds. But who scored the fastest century in the T20 World Cups among them?

It is time to find out who did it quicker than anyone else in this high-stakes tournament. Here's the list of players and their fastest ton feats for you to check:

Chris Gayle: Etching his name twice in history (47-ball and 50-ball record)

Chris Gayle is at the top when asked Who scored the fastest century in T20 World Cups? | sportzpoint.com
Chris Gayle celebrating his fastest century in 2016 T20 World Cup against England.
  • Fastest century: in 47 balls vs ENG (2016)
  • Second-fastest: in 50 balls vs SA (2007)

The West Indies legend, Chris Gayle, remarkably holds not just one, but the top two records for the fastest centuries in the T20 World Cup. He set the bar so high with his explosive batting qualities that no one dared to come closer.

His record-shattering fastest century came in 2016 edition against England, where he scored a century in only 47 balls. He hit 5 fours and 11 sixes with a strike rate above 200! He was also unbeaten and chased down the total to contribute to the 6-wicket victory.

Adding to his legacy, Gayle occupies the 2nd rank as well in this prestigious list, with his century in the 2007 T20 World Cup in 50 balls. This was his first century in the history of the tournament, and was the fastest for 9 years until he broke his own record.

Gayle's fearless approach and ability to change the course of a match are what set him apart from the rest at the highest level.

Read Also: Most Sixes in International Cricket History | Top 25 Batters

3. Brendon McCullum (51 balls) vs BAN | 2012

Brendon McCullum is the third name when asked Who scored the fastest century in T20 World Cups? | sportzpoint.com
Brendon McCullum celebrates his century against Bangladesh in 2012 T20 WC. Image | Mint

The New Zealand powerhouse, Brendon McCullum, stands third on this list with a blistering century off just 51 balls against Bangladesh in the 2012 T20 World Cup. This was his first-ever and the only century in the tournament's history.

It was also a historic moment for his nation, as it was the first time a New Zealand batter scored a century in T20 World Cup, setting a high standard for his countrymen.

4. Rilee Rossouw (52 balls) vs BAN | 2022

Rilee Rossouw is the fourth name when asked Who scored the fastest century in T20 World Cups? | sportzpoint.com
Rossouw celebrates his century against Bangladesh in 2022 T20 WC. Image | Instagram

South Africa's Rilee Rossouw smashed his maiden T20 World Cup century in 52 balls, which is the fourth-highest so far. He helped the Proteas set a huge total of 205 on the board, making things difficult for Bangladesh in the second innings, and eventually winning in the end.

Read Also: Best bowling spells in T20 World Cups

5. Ahmed Shehzad (58 balls) vs BAN | 2014

Ahmed Shehzad is the 5th name when asked Who scored the fastest century in T20 World Cups? | sportzpoint.com
Ahmed Shehzad celebrates his fastest T20 World Cup century. Image | NDTV

Ahmed Shehzad registered Pakistan's fastest T20 World Cup century, scoring it in 58 balls against Bangladesh in 2014. He opened for the team and stayed unbeaten till the end, helping them build a strong total at a crucial time.

Despite a middle-order collapse, he saved the situation and converted it into a victory.

6. Suresh Raina (59 balls) vs SA | 2010

Suresh Raina is the 6th name when asked Who scored the fastest century in T20 World Cups? | sportzpoint.com
Raina celebrates his fastest T20 WC century against SA in 2010. Image | Facebook

Suresh Raina's explosive 59-ball century against South Africa in the 2010 T20 WC places him among the fastest centurions. He is the only Indian batter in the list to score a hundred in less than 60 balls.

What made this knock more memorable is the fact that this was his first T20 World Cup century.

Read Also: Youngest Indian cricketers to score an international century

7. Alex Hales (60 balls) vs SL | 2014

Alex Hales is the 7th name when asked Who scored the fastest century in T20 World Cups? | sportzpoint.com
Alex Hales celebrates his 60-ball century in 2010 T20 WC. Image | Sportstar

Alex Hales brought up his hundred for England in 60 balls against Sri Lanka in 2014. His performance was a blend of calculated aggression and elegant striking.

He picked up the team after the fall of early wickets and chased down a huge total by staying till the end, which resulted in a 6-wicket victory.

8. Tamim Iqbal (60 balls) vs OMA | 2016

Tamim Iqbal is the 8th name when asked Who scored the fastest century in T20 World Cups? | sportzpoint.com
Tamim Iqbal's celebration of joy after scoring a century against Oman in 2016 T20 WC. Image | ESPNcricinfo

Tamim Iqbal stands as the only Bangladeshi batter to score a century in the T20 World Cup to date. His century also made it to the Top 10 fastest centuries and equalled the 60-ball mark as Hales.

This performance was crucial for the nation's campaign in the 2016 edition and also transformed him into a great limited-overs opener.

9. Glenn Phillips (61 balls) vs Sri Lanka | 2022

Glenn Phillips is the 9th name when asked Who scored the fastest century in T20 World Cups? | sportzpoint.com
Glenn Phillips' celebration after his century against SL in 2010 T20 WC. Image | BBC

New Zealand's "Zippy," Glenn Phillips, added his name to the fastest century list with a 61-ball hundred against Sri Lanka in the 2022 edition. This knock marked his second century in T20 Internationals.

In a display of aggressive but controlled batting, Phillips proved to be crucial for his nation, cementing his place as a dynamic T20 batter.

Read Also: Is 2025 the miraculous year in sports history?

10. Mahela Jayawardene (63 balls) vs ZIM | 2010

Mahela Jayawardene is the 10th name when asked Who scored the fastest century in T20 World Cups? | sportzpoint.com
Jayawardene celebrates his century against Zimbabwe in 2010 T20 WC. Image | X

Mahela Jayawardene, the elegant Sri Lankan maestro, scored a rapid 63-ball century against Zimbabwe in the 2010 T20 World Cup. His innings, a display of his class and ability to accelerate when needed, was a key factor in his team's strong record.

This century was also Sri Lanka's first in the T20 World Cup history.

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