Australia’s Megan Schutt sits at the top of the ICC Women’s T20 World Cup wicket charts with 48 wickets, the most by any bowler in the tournament’s history. Her ability to deliver breakthroughs at crucial moments has made her one of the standout performers across multiple editions of the competition.
While big scores often grab the headlines, wickets are what frequently decide T20 matches. A key dismissal can stop a batting side’s momentum, break an important partnership, or swing the game in a matter of overs. That’s why the world’s best teams have always relied on bowlers who can perform under pressure.
Over the years, the Women’s T20 World Cup has seen several bowlers leave a lasting mark on the tournament. From Megan Schutt (48 wickets) and Shabnim Ismail (43 wickets) to Ellyse Perry (40 wickets), these players have consistently stepped up against the best batters in the world.
In this list, we look at the players with the most wickets in Women’s T20 World Cup history and the records they have built on cricket’s biggest T20 stage.
Leading Wicket-Takers in Women’s T20 World Cup History
The ICC Women’s T20 World Cup has produced many memorable bowling performances. The following list showcases the players who have taken the most wickets in the tournament’s history.
| Player | Span | Match | Inns | Runs | Wkts | Ave | Econ | SR |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Megan Schutt (AUS) | 2016–2024 | 29 | 29 | 563 | 48 | 11.72 | 5.65 | 12.43 |
| Shabnim Ismail (SA) | 2009–2023 | 32 | 32 | 656 | 43 | 15.25 | 5.83 | 15.69 |
| Anya Shrubsole (ENG) | 2010–2020 | 27 | 27 | 512 | 41 | 12.48 | 5.32 | 14.07 |
| Ellyse Perry (AUS) | 2009–2024 | 47 | 42 | 707 | 40 | 17.67 | 5.79 | 18.3 |
| Stafanie Taylor (WI) | 2009–2024 | 35 | 27 | 512 | 33 | 15.51 | 5.95 | 15.63 |
| Amelia Kerr (NZ) | 2018–2024 | 18 | 18 | 359 | 32 | 11.21 | 5.16 | 13.03 |
| Marizanne Kapp (SA) | 2009–2024 | 32 | 31 | 552 | 31 | 17.8 | 5.13 | 20.8 |
| Deandra Dottin (WI) | 2009–2024 | 35 | 20 | 355 | 31 | 11.45 | 6.15 | 11.16 |
| Sophie Ecclestone (ENG) | 2018–2024 | 18 | 18 | 309 | 29 | 10.65 | 4.37 | 14.62 |
| Sophie Devine (NZ) | 2009–2024 | 38 | 28 | 496 | 29 | 17.1 | 6.17 | 16.62 |
1. Megan Schutt (Australia) 48 Wickets
Megan Schutt holds the record for the most wickets in Women’s T20 World Cup history, with an outstanding tally of 48 wickets. The Australian fast bowler has been a crucial part of Australia’s success and has consistently delivered match-winning performances on the biggest stage.
| Rank | Team | Matches/Innings | Wickets | Economy Rate |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| 1st | Australia | 29 | 48 | 5.65 |
Known for her ability to swing the new ball and maintain tight lines, Schutt has been one of the tournament’s most reliable bowlers for over a decade. She has featured in 29 Women’s T20 World Cup matches and maintained an impressive economy rate of 5.65, highlighting both her wicket-taking ability and control.
Her consistency across multiple editions of the tournament has helped Australia remain one of the strongest teams in women’s cricket. With 48 wickets, she remains the benchmark for every bowler looking to leave their mark on the Women’s T20 World Cup.
2. Shabnim Ismail (South Africa) 43 Wickets
Shabnim Ismail is widely regarded as one of the fastest bowlers to ever play women’s cricket. The South African pace star built her reputation through raw speed, aggression, and an ability to deliver under pressure.
Her outstanding performances in the Women’s T20 World Cup have earned her a place among the tournament’s greatest bowlers
| Rank | Team | Matches/Innings | Wickets | Economy Rate |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| 2nd | South Africa | 32 | 43 | 5.83 |
Throughout her career, Ismail has been South Africa’s go-to wicket-taking option. Whether bowling with the new ball or returning in crucial moments, she has consistently found ways to break partnerships and put opposition batters under pressure. Her aggressive style has made her one of the most feared bowlers in international cricket.
With 43 wickets in the Women’s T20 World Cup, she ranks second on the all-time list. Combined with an impressive economy rate of 5.83, her record highlights both her attacking mindset and her ability to keep runs under control.
3. Anya Shrubsole (England) 41 Wickets
Anya Shrubsole is one of the most successful bowlers in Women’s T20 World Cup history and remains a key figure in England’s cricket legacy. Known for her ability to swing the ball and deliver in high-pressure situations, she consistently produced match-winning performances throughout her international career.
| Rank | Team | Matches/Innings | Wickets | Economy Rate |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| 3rd | England | 27 | 41 | 5.32 |
With 41 wickets, Shrubsole ranks as the third-highest wicket-taker in Women’s T20 World Cup history. Her impressive economy rate of 5.32 is also among the best among the leading wicket-takers, highlighting both her wicket-taking ability and her effectiveness at restricting runs
She regularly provided important breakthroughs with the new ball and was often trusted to bowl during the most challenging phases of an innings.
Her ability to maintain control while attacking opposition batters made her a valuable asset for her team.
4. Ellyse Perry (Australia) 40 Wickets
Ellyse Perry is widely regarded as one of the greatest all-rounders in the history of cricket. While her batting achievements often attract the spotlight, her contributions with the ball have been just as important to Australia’s success in the Women’s T20 World Cup.
Over the years, Perry has consistently stepped up in big matches and delivered crucial breakthroughs when her team needed them most.
| Rank | Team | Matches/Innings | Wickets | Economy Rate |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| 4th | Australia | 42 | 40 | 5.79 |
Her ability to swing the ball, maintain disciplined lines, and perform under pressure has made her one of the most reliable bowlers in the tournament. Perry has been part of several successful Australian campaigns and has built a reputation as a player who thrives on the biggest stage.
With 40 wickets in the Women’s T20 World Cup, Perry is one of only a few bowlers to reach the 40-wicket milestone. Combined with her all-round brilliance, this achievement further strengthens her legacy as one of the game’s all-time greats.
5. Stafanie Taylor (West Indies) 33 Wickets
Stafanie Taylor has been one of the most influential players in the history of West Indies women’s cricket. Although she is best known for her all-round abilities, her bowling has also played a major role in her team’s success at the Women’s T20 World Cup.
| Rank | Team | Matches/Innings | Wickets | Economy Rate |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| 5th | West Indies | 35 | 33 | 5.95 |
Throughout her career, she has been a dependable performer in high-pressure situations. Her calm approach and ability to adapt to different match conditions have made her one of the most respected players in women’s cricket.
Taylor’s performances have helped West Indies compete against some of the strongest teams in the world.
With 33 wickets in the tournament, she ranks among the most successful bowlers in Women’s T20 World Cup history. Her achievements highlight the value she has brought to the West Indies across multiple editions of the competition.
6. Amelia Kerr (New Zealand) 32 Wickets
Amelia Kerr has emerged as one of the brightest stars in women’s cricket and continues to build an impressive international career. The New Zealand all-rounder has already established herself as a match-winner with both bat and ball despite still being in the early stages of her career compared to many players on this list.
| Rank | Team | Matches/Innings | Wickets | Economy Rate |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| 6th | New Zealand | 26 | 32 | 5.16 |
Her leg-spin bowling has become one of New Zealand’s biggest strengths in major tournaments. Kerr’s ability to take wickets while maintaining control has made her a crucial part of the team’s success.
She has consistently delivered strong performances against some of the best teams in the world.
Amelia Kerr has picked up an impressive 32 wickets in just 26 Women’s T20 World Cup matches, making her the highest-ranked New Zealand player on this list. The New Zealand all-rounder has become one of her team’s most important players and continues to shine on the biggest stage.
7.Marizanne Kapp (South Africa) 31 Wickets
Marizanne Kapp has been one of South Africa’s most dependable performers for more than a decade. Known for her accuracy, movement with the ball, and ability to deliver under pressure, Kapp has played a crucial role in the growth of South African women’s cricket on the international stage.
| Rank | Team | Matches/Innings | Wickets | Economy Rate |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| 8th | South Africa | 32 | 31 | 5.13 |
The experienced all-rounder has consistently stepped up in major tournaments and has often led South Africa’s bowling attack against some of the strongest teams in the world.
Her disciplined bowling and ability to break important partnerships have made her one of the most respected players in the game.
Kapp has taken 31 wickets in 31 Women’s T20 World Cup matches, making her one of South Africa’s most successful bowlers in the tournament. Her economy rate of 5.13 reflects her ability to keep batters under pressure while continuing to make important breakthroughs.
8.Deandra Dottin (West Indies) 31 Wickets
Deandra Dottin is best known for her explosive batting, but she has also made a major impact with the ball throughout her international career. The West Indies star has been one of the most dangerous all-rounders in women’s cricket and has played a key role in many of her team’s biggest victories.
| Rank | Team | Matches/Innings | Wickets | Economy Rate |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| 7th | West Indies | 30 | 31 | 6.15 |
Dottin’s athleticism, pace, and ability to produce breakthroughs have made her a valuable bowling option in the Women’s T20 World Cup. Over the years, she has consistently delivered important wickets while also contributing heavily with the bat.
Her tally of 31 wickets in 30 Women’s T20 World Cup matches places her among the tournament’s leading wicket-takers. Combined with an economy rate of 6.15, her record reflects the all-round impact she has had on the global stage.
9.Sophie Ecclestone (England) 29 Wickets
Sophie Ecclestone has quickly become one of the best spin bowlers in world cricket. The England star is known for her accuracy, control, and ability to take wickets at crucial moments.
Despite being younger than many players on this list, she has already built an impressive record in Women’s T20 World Cup competition.
| Rank | Team | Matches/Innings | Wickets | Economy Rate |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| 9th | England | 18 | 29 | 4.37 |
Ecclestone has been a key part of England’s bowling attack in recent years and has consistently delivered against top-quality opposition. Her ability to contain runs while creating wicket-taking opportunities makes her one of the most complete bowlers in the women’s game.
Having claimed 29 wickets in just 18 Women’s T20 World Cup matches, Ecclestone has achieved her success faster than many players above her on this list. Combined with a strong economy rate of 5.85, her record highlights why she is regarded as one of the world’s leading spinners.
10. Sophie Devine (New Zealand) 29 Wickets
Sophie Devine is widely regarded as one of the greatest all-rounders in women’s cricket. Known for her powerful batting and aggressive approach, the New Zealand captain has also been a valuable contributor with the ball throughout her international career. Her ability to make an impact in all aspects of the game has made her one of New Zealand’s most important players over the years.
| Rank | Team | Matches/Innings | Wickets | Economy Rate |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| 10th | New Zealand | 38 | 29 | 6.17 |
Devine has regularly provided crucial breakthroughs for New Zealand in major tournaments and has often stepped up in pressure situations.
Her medium-pace bowling has given her team an additional wicket-taking option, allowing her to contribute beyond her achievements with the bat.
With 29 wickets in 38 Women’s T20 World Cup matches, Devine ranks among the tournament’s leading wicket-takers. Her best bowling figures of 4/22 highlight her ability to deliver match-changing performances, while her all-round contributions have cemented her place as one of New Zealand’s most influential players on the world stage.
Conclusion: Megan Schutt Holds The Women’s T20 World Cup Record For Most Wickets
The ICC Women’s T20 World Cup has produced some of the best bowling performances in the history of women’s cricket. Over the years, bowlers such as Megan Schutt (48 wickets), Shabnim Ismail (43 wickets), Anya Shrubsole (41 wickets), and Ellyse Perry (40 wickets) have consistently delivered for their teams on the biggest stage.
From pace bowlers who thrive with the new ball to spinners who control the middle overs, these players have played a key role in many memorable World Cup campaigns.
This list takes a look at the 10 highest wicket-takers in Women’s T20 World Cup history, highlighting the bowlers who have made the greatest impact with the ball.
Their ability to take crucial wickets, break partnerships, and perform under pressure has helped shape some of the tournament’s biggest moments and cemented their place among the competition’s all-time greats.
