Bowlers having most wickets in Champions Trophy

As of December 2024, the bowlers with the most wickets in ICC Champions Trophy history are:

1. Kyle Mills (New Zealand)

Kyle Mills, the former New Zealand fast-medium bowler, holds the record for the most wickets in ICC Champions Trophy history, with 28 wickets in 15 matches at an impressive average of 17.25 and an economy rate of 4.29. His best bowling figures in the tournament are 4 wickets for 30 runs.

In the 2013 ICC Champions Trophy, Mills was New Zealand’s most successful bowler, taking six wickets at an average of 10.5 in three matches. This performance elevated him to the leading wicket-taker in the history of the Champions Trophy at that time.

Notably, Mills’s 4/30 performance came in a match against England during the 2013 Champions Trophy, although New Zealand lost that match.

Throughout his career, Mills was known for his consistent performances and strong control over his deliveries, making him a key player for New Zealand in One Day Internationals.

2. Lasith Malinga (Sri Lanka)

Lasith Malinga, the renowned Sri Lankan fast bowler, delivered his best ICC Champions Trophy performance on June 9, 2013, against New Zealand in Cardiff. In this match, Malinga bowled 10 overs, including 2 maidens, conceding 34 runs and taking 4 wickets, resulting in an impressive economy rate of 3.40. Despite Malinga’s exceptional bowling, Sri Lanka narrowly lost the match.

Throughout his Champions Trophy career, Malinga played 16 matches, taking 25 wickets, which places him among the top wicket-takers in the tournament’s history.

Malinga’s distinctive slinging bowling action and his ability to deliver precise yorkers made him a formidable opponent in international cricket. His performances in tournaments like the Champions Trophy have solidified his reputation as one of the game’s most effective fast bowlers.

3. Muttiah Muralitharan (Sri Lanka)

Muttiah Muralitharan, the legendary Sri Lankan off-spinner, delivered his best ICC Champions Trophy performance on September 16, 2002, against the Netherlands at the R. Premadasa Stadium in Colombo. In this match, Muralitharan bowled 6.5 overs, conceding only 15 runs, and took 4 wickets, achieving remarkable bowling figures of 4/15.

contributed significantly to Sri Lanka’s dominant performance, as they bowled out the Netherlands for a modest total, leading to a comprehensive victory. Muralitharan’s ability to extract turn and bounce, combined with his exceptional control, made him a formidable force in international cricket, particularly in limited-overs formats like the Champions Trophy.

Throughout his Champions Trophy career with 24 wickets in 17 matches, Muralitharan consistently showcased his prowess, making him one of the tournament’s most effective bowlers. His contributions were instrumental in Sri Lanka’s successes during his playing tenure.

4. Brett Lee (Australia)

Brett Lee, the Australian fast bowler renowned for his express pace, delivered his best ICC Champions Trophy performance on September 15, 2002, against New Zealand at the Sinhalese Sports Club Ground in Colombo. In this match, Lee bowled 9 overs, conceding 38 runs, and took 3 wickets, achieving bowling figures of 3/38.

Throughout his Champions Trophy career, Lee played 16 matches, taking 22 wickets at an average of 26.86 and an economy rate of 4.79. His best bowling figures in the tournament were 3/38.

Lee’s ability to consistently bowl at high speeds, combined with his aggressive approach, made him a key asset for Australia in limited-overs cricket. His performances in tournaments like the Champions Trophy contributed significantly to Australia’s successes during his playing era.

5. James Anderson (England)

Throughout his Champions Trophy career, Lee played 16 matches, taking 22 wickets at an average of 26.86 and an economy rate of 4.79. His best bowling figures in the tournament were 3/38.