The ODI World Cup 2023 is days away with the opener between England and New Zealand scheduled for October 5 at the Narendra Modi Stadium in Ahmedabad. Notably, the tournament kicks off with a rematch of the previous edition’s final. The Narendra Modi Stadium which is the world’s largest cricket stadium will be hosting the marquee clashes between India and Pakistan, England and Australia, and also the final of the tournament on November 19. With the World Cup getting closer every passing day here is a look at the three most successful fast bowlers in the history of the mega event.
3. Wasim Akram, Pakistan
The ‘Sultan of Swing’, Wasim Akram makes his presence felt in the third position with 55 wickets in 38 games in the ODI World Cup for Pakistan. The feared Pakistani pacer scalped his wickets at an average of 23.83 whilst maintaining an economy rate of 4.04, which is incredible for limited-overs cricket. His best bowling figures in the marquee tournament account for 5/28 and also has two five-wicket hauls to his credit in the ODI World Cup.
2. Lasith Malinga, Sri Lanka
‘Slinga Malinga’, Lasith Malinga is the second entrant in the list at the second position with 56 wickets in 29 games in the ODI World Cup for Sri Lanka. The unique pacer, known for his famous sling-action, scaled his prey at the average of 22.87 whilst maintaining an economy rate of 5.51, another incredible figure considering the time he played in. With two four-wicket hauls and one five-fer, Malinga recorded the best figures of 6/38 in the ODI World Cup.
1. Glenn McGrath, Australia
Pace-bowling legend Glenn McGrath has his position cemented at the top of the list with 71 wickets in 39 games in the ODI World Cup for Australia. One of the most feared pacers of all time, McGrath picked up wickets at an average of 18.19 whilst maintaining an economy rate of 3.96, which is incredible for the limited-overs game. He has two five-wicket hauls to his credit in the tournament with the best bowling figures of 7/15.