5 fast bowlers who gave batters nightmares in T20 World Cup matches

Fast bowlers have long given batters tough times in the T20 World Cup, courtesy of their ability to produce wicket-taking spells. In the T20 World Cup, pacers have been especially solid, giving breakthroughs in regular intervals. Notably, fast bowlers account for nearly 65 to 66% of all wickets in T20 World Cup history, largely because they bowl a similar share of the total overs.

Interestingly, while spinners have excelled in the individual all-time wicket charts, pace bowlers collectively have grabbed attention. Pacers often enjoy bounce-friendly conditions like Australia or South Africa, though spin could rule again in India and Sri Lanka in 2026.

Here are the 5 fast bowlers who gave batsmen nightmares in T20 World Cups

5. Trent Boult (New Zealand)

Former New Zealand quick Trent Boult also features on this list is Trent Boult. One of the finest left-arm pacers of his generation, Boult had an impressive World Cup record, where he played a key role in New Zealand's campaigns.

In T20Is, Boult picked up 62 wickets in 61 matches, with best figures of 4/13. In recent years, however, Boult has stepped away from New Zealand’s central contract, significantly reducing his international appearances. He formally retired in 2024; his focus has shifted almost entirely to franchise cricket, where he continues to be an asset across global leagues. In 18 World Cup games, the left-arm seamer scalped 34 wickets.