Most Wickets by Active Players in ODI Cricket

ODI cricket offers a unique thrill and excitement that sets it apart from other formats of the game. With a limited number of overs, both batting and bowling teams are under constant pressure to perform. The time constraint adds a sense of urgency, making every run and wicket crucial. This creates an atmosphere of tension and excitement throughout the match. Captains have to make quick decisions on the field, constantly adjusting their field placements based on the match situation and the batsmen’s style of play.

ODI cricket often features thrilling run chases. Whether it’s a modest target or a challenging one, the pressure on the chasing team to score runs quickly and keep up with the required run rate can lead to dramatic finishes. However, the bowlers play an important role in the ODI format more than anything. The bowling squad of any team is the primary game-changer in ODI cricket. We have compiled a list of active players with the most wickets in an ODI.

1) Shakib Al Hasan – Bangladesh

One of the most prominent spinners from Bangladesh, Shakib Al Hasan, tops the charts with 294 wickets in 221 innings at an average of 29.06. Shakib possesses excellent control and accuracy in his bowling, which allows him to maintain a consistent line and length. He can fly the ball, giving it air to deceive the batsman, and also varies his pace and trajectory to keep the batsman guessing. Shakib also has a good repertoire of spin variations in his bowling arsenal. He can generate sharp turns and bounce from the pitch, particularly on responsive surfaces.

2) Mitchell Starc – Australia

The ferocious Australian pacer, Mitchell Starc, is in the second spot with 211 wickets in 107 innings at an average of 22.13. Mitchell Starc’s bowling style can be described as left-arm fast, combining raw pace, swing, and aggression. He is recognized as one of the fastest bowlers in contemporary cricket, capable of consistently bowling over 145 kilometers per hour (90 miles per hour). Starc generates his pace through a smooth and athletic run-up, using his strong frame to generate power in his deliveries. He has a high-arm action and a smooth release, allowing him to maintain a consistent line and length.

3) Tim Southee – New Zealand

The New Zealand pacer, Tim Southee, is following Micthell Starc very closely with 204 wickets in 149 ODI innings at an average of 33.74. Southee is a clever bowler with a good cricketing brain. He understands the nuances of different conditions and adapts his bowling accordingly. Whether it’s exploiting helpful seam and swing conditions or adjusting his plans on flat pitches, Southee shows versatility in his approach. Southee’s variations include well-disguised slower deliveries and cutters. He can change his pace effectively to deceive batsmen and keep them off balance. These variations, combined with his swing and movement, make him a difficult bowler to handle.

4) Ravindra Jadeja – India

India’s Ravindra Jadeja is the most dangerous all-rounder in international cricket. He comes in the list at the 4th spot with 189 wickets in 166 ODI innings. In addition to conventional spin, Jadeja is also proficient in using variations in his bowling. He can deliver the ball with subtle changes in flight, pace, and trajectory, keeping the batsmen guessing and forcing them into making mistakes. He can also vary the amount of spin he imparts on the ball, deceiving batsmen with his ability to spin it sharply or hold it back.

5) Trent Boult – New Zealand

Another New Zealand pacer, Trent Boult, who is still active in the different T20 cricket leagues across the leagues. He has picked up 187 wickets in just 99 innings. Boult is renowned for his exceptional swing bowling skills. With the new ball, he can generate significant conventional swing, making the ball move away from the right-handed batsmen. His smooth run-up, high-arm action, and controlled release contribute to his ability to swing the ball effectively. Boult’s swing bowling can trouble batsmen in the early stages of an inning and lead to early breakthroughs.