South Africa pace ace Shabnim Ismail added another glittering milestone to her remarkable career after becoming the first bowler to claim 50 wickets in the history of the ICC Women’s T20 World Cup. The experienced fast bowler achieved the feat during South Africa’s semifinal against England at Kennington Oval, London, on Thursday. Although South Africa’s campaign ended with defeat, Ismail’s record-breaking performance ensured her name was etched into the tournament’s history books.

Shabnim Ismail scripts history with stunning milestone

The veteran pacer entered the knockout clash needing just one wicket to become the first bowler to reach the coveted milestone. She wasted no time, dismissing England opener Amy Jones with the opening delivery of her spell. Jones edged a sharp delivery to Annerie Dercksen after scoring just two runs, handing Ismail her historic 50th Women’s T20 World Cup wicket.

Ismail continued her impressive spell by striking again in her next over, helping reduce England to 23/3 in the powerplay. Despite her early breakthroughs, England recovered brilliantly through a crucial partnership to eventually book their place in the final. By the end of the match, Ismail had taken her tally to 51 wickets in just 38 Women’s T20 World Cup appearances, further extending her lead as the tournament’s highest wicket-taker.

5 bowlers with most wickets in Women’s T20 World Cup

1. Shabnim Ismail (South Africa) – 51 wickets

Ismail sits at the top of the Women’s T20 World Cup wicket charts with 51 wickets, making her the first bowler to cross the 50-wicket mark in the tournament’s history. Renowned for her raw pace and ability to strike with the new ball, the South African speedster has been a match-winner across multiple editions of the competition. She achieved the historic milestone during the 2026 semifinal against England, further strengthening her legacy as one of the greatest fast bowlers in women’s cricket.

2. Megan Schutt (Australia) – 48 wickets

Australia’s Megan Schutt occupies second place with 48 wickets and has been a vital cog in her team’s dominance at ICC events. Known for her exceptional swing bowling and pinpoint accuracy, Schutt has consistently delivered breakthroughs in both the powerplay and death overs. Her ability to perform in high-pressure matches has helped Australia lift multiple Women’s T20 World Cup titles, making her one of the tournament’s most successful bowlers.

3. Ellyse Perry (Australia) – 44 wickets

One of the finest all-rounders in the history of the game, Ellyse Perry ranks third with 44 Women’s T20 World Cup wickets. Although celebrated equally for her batting, Perry has repeatedly made crucial contributions with the ball, especially in knockout matches. Her disciplined line and length, combined with vast experience, have made her a dependable performer for Australia throughout her illustrious World Cup career.

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4. Anya Shrubsole (England) – 41 wickets

Former England seamer Anya Shrubsole claimed 41 wickets in Women’s T20 World Cup history, establishing herself as one of England’s most reliable bowlers on the global stage. Famous for her ability to swing the new ball and deliver under pressure, Shrubsole played a key role in several memorable England campaigns. Her consistency and knack for breaking partnerships earned her a place among the tournament’s all-time leading wicket-takers.

5. Marizanne Kapp (South Africa) – 39 wickets

South African all-rounder Marizanne Kapp rounds off the top five with 39 wickets in the Women’s T20 World Cup. Widely regarded as one of the most complete cricketers in the women’s game, Kapp has been instrumental with both bat and ball for South Africa over the years. Her ability to generate movement with the new ball and bowl economical spells has made her a constant threat in ICC tournaments and a key figure in South Africa’s rise in international cricket.

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This article was first published at WomenCricket.com, a Cricket Times company.

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