Top 3 fast bowlers with highest wickets in ODI Asia Cup

The top 6 nations from Asia are set to compete once again for the coveted title once again this year and for the first time since 2018, the 50-over format will be followed. The last time this competition was held in this format, India clinched a narrow win over neighbors Bangladesh to take home the title.

Pacers tend to go under the radar whenever Asia Cup is held since the tracks provided to the teams are more spin-friendly and less pacers are used by nations in the tournament. But, nevertheless, some of the nations have top quality pacers who always scalp wickets for their side. Taking a look at the top 3 fast bowlers with highest wickets in ODI Asia Cup.

1. Lasith Malinga

The ‘Yorker King’ was one of the most lethal bowlers of his generation and his unorthodox action made life difficult for the batters. His pinpoint yorkers helped his side scalp crucial blows to the opposition. 

Between 2004 and 2018, Malinga participated in 5 editions, taking 29 wickets at an economy rate of 4.65 as well as an average of 20.55. During the 2010 along with 2014 tournaments, he finished first in wickets taken, and in 2004 and 2014, he won the Asia Cup.  

2. Chaminda Vaas

Chaminda Vaas, the former Sri Lankan pacer,comes up second in the highest wicket taker list. He was the main man along with Lasith Malinga in the pace bowling department for the Sri Lankan team.

He participated in the Asia Cup from 1995 to 2008, taking 23 wickets with an average of 27.78 as well as a 4.19 economy rate. His tight bowling was integral for the Sri Lankan team to keep their opposition to a low score.

3. Irfan Pathan

Irfan Pathan was one of the greatest bowling all-rounders, who used to chip wickets at regular intervals for Team India and contribute with the bat for his side lower down the order. His ability to swing the ball in both directions was an asset for his side in the opening overs of the opposition innings as it would limit the scoring rate as well.

Irfan Pathan took 22 wickets in 12 matches with a 27.50 average along with an economy of 5.50. He was never able to take a fifer in ODI cricket while playing for Team India in the Asia Cup which might be a thing to look back on for him.