The ICC Champions Trophy has seen some of cricket’s finest bowlers etching their names in history with match-winning performances. From fiery pacers to wily spinners, these bowlers have left a lasting legacy in one of cricket’s most competitive tournaments.
Here’s a look at the top five wicket-takers in Champions Trophy history, their standout performances, and their impact on the game:
1️⃣ Kyle Mills (New Zealand) – 28 wickets
The consistent and underrated Kyle Mills stands as the all-time leading wicket-taker in Champions Trophy history, with 28 wickets in just 15 matches (2002-2013).
- Memorable Spell: 3/69 against Sri Lanka in 2009, showcasing his swing and seam abilities.
- Impact:
- Played a key role in New Zealand’s 2009 runners-up finish, taking 9 wickets in the tournament.
- Ended his career with an impressive economy of 4.29, making him a valuable asset in tight games.
2️⃣ Lasith Malinga (Sri Lanka) – 25 wickets
Known for his unorthodox sling-arm action, Lasith Malinga terrorized batters with pinpoint yorkers and deceptive slower balls.
- Memorable Spell: 2/58 against England in the 2013 edition, dismantling the opposition’s middle order as Sri Lanka chased down a massive total.
- Impact:
- Participated in four editions (2006-2017), becoming Sri Lanka’s go-to bowler in crunch situations.
- Finished his career with 25 wickets in 16 matches at an economy of 5.31.
3️⃣ Muttiah Muralitharan (Sri Lanka) – 24 wickets
A legend of the game, Muttiah Muralitharan mesmerized batters with his spin and precision.
- Memorable Spell: 4/15 against the Netherlands in 2002, a masterclass in off-spin bowling.
- Impact:
- Played in five editions (1998-2009), claiming 24 wickets in 15 matches.
- Boasted the best economy rate among the top five bowlers, with 3.60.
- Helped Sri Lanka reach the 2002 final, which was shared with India due to rain.
4️⃣ Brett Lee (Australia) – 22 wickets
One of cricket’s fastest bowlers, Brett Lee was a match-winner for Australia in the Champions Trophy.
- Memorable Spell: 2/45 in the 2009 final against New Zealand, where Australia clinched the title.
- Impact:
- Played in 15 matches across two editions (2006 and 2009).
- Integral to Australia’s 2006 and 2009 Champions Trophy victories, finishing with 22 wickets.
5️⃣ Glenn McGrath (Australia) – 21 wickets
The master of line and length, Glenn McGrath was a consistent performer in Australia’s Champions Trophy campaigns.
- Memorable Spell: 5/37 against New Zealand in 2002, one of the finest spells in the tournament’s history.
- Impact:
- Participated in three editions (2000-2006), claiming 21 wickets in just 12 matches.
- Played a pivotal role in Australia’s 2006 title-winning campaign.
Honorable Mentions:
- James Anderson (England): 21 wickets (2006-2013)
- Jacques Kallis (South Africa): 20 wickets (1998-2009)
- Mervyn Dillon (West Indies): 19 wickets (1998-2004)
- Chaminda Vaas (Sri Lanka): 18 wickets (1998-2006)
- Daniel Vettori (New Zealand): 18 wickets (1998-2013)
Looking Ahead to ICC Champions Trophy 2025
With the tournament fast approaching, the stage is set for a new generation of bowlers to make their mark. Will someone rise to challenge Kyle Mills’ record, or will the legends of the past remain untouched?
Stay tuned for more updates and insights as the Champions Trophy draws nearer!
