The T20I format is a fast-paced, short-format version of the game where each team gets a maximum of 20 overs to bat. It has revolutionized the game with its aggressive batting, innovative shots, and high scoring encounters. The format emphasizes power-hitting, quick bowling changes, and strategic field placements, keeping fans engaged throughout.
T20 cricket, while often seen as a batter’s game, has also redefined the role of bowlers, making them crucial to a team’s success. With only 24 legal deliveries in their quota, bowlers must be highly strategic, using variations like yorkers, slower balls, and wide yorkers to restrict aggressive batters. Despite the format favoring high-scoring encounters, match-winning spells and economical bowling performances often decide the outcome, proving that bowlers remain just as vital in T20 cricket as their batting counterparts.
Here’s a list of top three Indian bowlers with most five wicket-hauls in T20 internationals:
1: Bhuvneshwar Kumar
One of the finest swing bowlers in the T20 format, Bhuvneshwar Kumar has been a crucial bowler for the Indian side. Unlike many T20 pacers who rely on express speed, Bhuvneshwar’s strength lies in his accuracy, variations, and seam movement. The fast bowler is known for his ability to move the ball both ways. Over the years, he has developed an excellent set of skills, including deceptive knuckleballs and pinpoint yorkers, making him effective in both the powerplay and death overs.
As of now, Bhuvneshwar Kumar has played 87 matches, taking 90 wickets for the men in blue. He has taken 2 five-wicket hauls in his T20I career against South Africa (5 for 24) and Afghanistan (5 for 4).
2: Kuldeep Yadav
One of India’s most potent spin weapons, Kuldeep Yadav is a left-arm wrist spinner who has made a mark in white-ball cricket. Kuldeep’s skill in bowling the traditional legbreak, sharp googlies, and even the occasional flipper makes him a wicket-taking threat in the middle overs. He is known for his ability to generate sharp turns and deceive batters with variations.
As of now, Kuldeep Yadav has played 40 matches, taking 69 wickets for the Indian Cricket Team. He has taken 2 five-wicket hauls in his T20I career against England (5 for 24) and South Africa (5 for 17).
3: Varun Chakravarthy
India’s mystery spinner, Varun Chakravarthy has emerged as one of the best spinners for the Indian camp in the T20 format. His bowling style includes a mix of off-spin, leg-spin, and carrom balls, making it difficult for batters to pick him. Varun is known for his unorthodox action and deceptive variations to outfox batters.
As of now, Varun Chakravarthy has played 16 matches, taking 29 wickets for the Indian side. He has taken 2 five-wicket hauls against South Africa (5 for 17) and England (5 for 24).
