Did Zampa Just Become the Joint Second-Highest Wicket-Taker in T20 World Cup History?
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Key Takeaways
Colombo, Feb 11 (NationPress) Australia's premier leg-spinner Adam Zampa has emerged as the joint second-highest wicket-taker in T20 World Cup history, following his remarkable four-wicket haul that secured a 67-run victory against Ireland at the R. Premadasa Stadium on Wednesday.
Zampa showcased his skills with bowling figures of 4-23, playing a pivotal role in dismantling Ireland for just 115 runs in 16.5 overs while they chased a target of 182. This outstanding performance elevates his total to 40 wickets in T20 World Cup history, tying him with Wanindu Hasaranga of Sri Lanka and Rashid Khan of Afghanistan for the second position on the all-time leaderboard.
Leading the chart is Shakib Al Hasan from Bangladesh with 50 wickets, followed closely by Pakistan's Shahid Afridi with 39 wickets.
This marks Zampa's second occasion of claiming four wickets in a T20 World Cup match, in addition to having achieved a five-wicket haul previously. In total, he has accumulated 143 wickets in T20 internationals at an impressive average of 20.56 over 112 matches.
After being invited to bat, Australia managed to post a score of 182/6, bolstered by a crucial partnership of 61 runs between Matthew Renshaw and Marcus Stoinis. The pair steadied the innings after early challenges, with Travis Head run out cheaply and Josh Inglis contributing a swift 37 runs from 17 balls. Renshaw scored 37, while Stoinis added 45, helping set a competitive target.
In response, Ireland faced an early blow when captain Paul Stirling had to retire hurt after just one ball. Nathan Ellis then wreaked havoc on the top order, taking three wickets in seven balls, while Zampa tightened his grip during the middle overs. Ireland collapsed to 43/5 before Lorcan Tucker and George Dockrell managed a partnership of 46 runs. However, Zampa dismantled this stand and secured his four-wicket haul, sealing victory for Australia.
Australia's next challenge is against Zimbabwe at the same venue on February 13th in their second group stage match of the T20 World Cup 2026, where Zampa aims to surpass both Rashid and Hasaranga on the all-time list.