Bowlers play a substantial role in taking crucial wickets for the team when it matters the most. The essential aspect of a bowler is to stick to subtle bowling variations of good line and length, in order to pose a serious threat to the batters in the crunch situations of the game.
Case in point, the England cricket team has produced quality bowlers who weaved the magic with the ball when it really mattered the most in the World Cups. Let’s now take a glimpse at the names of the six bowlers who took the most wickets for the England cricket team in World Cups.
1. Chris Woakes
England’s Chris Woakes etched his name into the record books when he equalled Ian Botham’s record of taking the most wickets in the Cricket World Cups. Currently, he has as many as 30 wickets to his name. He has a great opportunity to create a new record in the upcoming game against Pakistan on November 11.
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2. Ian Botham
Ian Botham was one of the important pillars in the history of England cricket during the heydays of his cricketing career. He represented the national cricket team in both Tests and ODIs. Botham has 145 wickets to his name in ODIs. He once held the record for taking the most wickets in the Cricket World Cup before it was equalled by Chris Woakes during the ICC Men’s ODI World Cup 2023.
3. Phil Defreitas
Phil Defreitas was one of the top players for England during the late 1980s and early 1990s. He played a substantial role in many memorable wins. He is known for his potential to swing the ball and contribute crucial runs down the order. Phil Defreitas has taken as many as 29 wickets in Cricket World Cups.
4. James Anderson
James Anderson is widely regarded as one of the greatest fast bowlers in the history of the sport. He is known for his potential to swing the ball both ways and consistently take the prized wickets. Anderson is the fourth-leading wicket-taker for England in World Cups with 27 wickets to his credit.
5. Adil Rashid
Adil Rashid has turned out to be one of the most potent spin weapons for England. He is known for his wrist spin and variations, making him an important asset in limited-overs cricket. He comes fifth on the list as he has taken as many as 24 wickets in Cricket World Cups. He is only four wickets away from edging past James Anderson.
6. Mark Wood
Mark Wood is best known for his ability to deliver the balls at a blistering pace, making him one of the most potent pace weapons for England in the fast bowling department. He has also taken as many as 24 wickets in Cricket World Cups.
Updated as of November 9, 2023.
