Pakistan has a rich history in cricket, particularly in the bowling department. The country has produced some of the best bowlers in the world, who have played key roles in Pakistan’s success in various international cricket tournaments, including the ICC Men’s Cricket World Cup. In this article, we will discuss the top performances of Pakistan bowlers IN World Cup.
- Imran Khan – 17 wickets in the 1987 World Cup:
Imran Khan, the legendary all-rounder and former Pakistan captain, played a crucial role in Pakistan’s journey to the 1987 World Cup semi-finals. Imran Khan took 17 wickets in the tournament, finishing as the second-highest wicket-taker. He recorded his best figures of 3/23 against Sri Lanka in the group stage match.
- Wasim Akram – 18 wickets in the 1992 World Cup:
Wasim Akram is widely regarded as one of the greatest left-arm fast bowlers of all time. He played a major role in Pakistan’s World Cup triumph in 1992. Wasim took 18 wickets in the tournament, finishing as the joint-highest wicket-taker with New Zealand’s Martin Crowe. Wasim’s best performance in the tournament came in the final against England, where he took 3/49, helping Pakistan win their first World Cup.
- Shahid Afridi – 21 wickets in the 2011 World Cup:
Shahid Afridi is one of the most popular cricketers in Pakistan. He played a crucial role in Pakistan’s journey to the semi-finals in the 2011 World Cup. Afridi took 21 wickets in the tournament, finishing as the joint-highest wicket-taker with India’s Zaheer Khan. Afridi’s best performance in the tournament came against Sri Lanka in the group stage match, where he took 4/34.
- Saqlain Mushtaq – 17 wickets in the 1999 World Cup:
Saqlain Mushtaq is widely regarded as one of the best off-spinners in cricket history. He played a crucial role in Pakistan’s journey to the 1999 World Cup final. Saqlain took 17 wickets in the tournament, finishing as the third-highest wicket-taker. His best performance in the tournament came against Zimbabwe in the group stage match, where he took 4/32.
- Abdul Qadir – 10 wickets in the 1983 World Cup:
Abdul Qadir is considered one of the greatest leg-spinners in cricket history. He played a key role in Pakistan’s journey to the semi-finals in the 1983 World Cup. Qadir took 10 wickets in the tournament, finishing as the joint-highest wicket-taker with India’s Roger Binny. His best performance in the tournament came against Sri Lanka in the group stage match, where he took 4/31.
In conclusion, Pakistan has produced some of the best bowlers in the history of cricket, and their performances in the men’s cricket World Cup are a testament to their skills and abilities. From Imran Khan to Wasim Akram, Shahid Afridi to Saqlain Mushtaq, and Abdul Qadir, Pakistan has always had a strong bowling unit that has played a vital role in their success in international cricket.
