Such wicket-taking performances in ODIs stand out because they combine technique, confidence, and just the right conditions to create magic on the field. Throughout cricket history, several bowlers have produced jaw-dropping performances that not only secured victory for their team but also set records that still stand today. Let’s dive into the top 10 Most Wickets in Single ODI Match and relive these unforgettable bowling masterclasses.
Who Took the Most Wickets in Single ODI Match?
The record for the most wickets taken in a single ODI match belongs to Chaminda Vaas of Sri Lanka, who delivered a spell that cricket fans still talk about today. Chaminda Vaas etched his name into cricket history on December 8, 2001, when he picked up 8 wickets for 19 runs against Zimbabwe. That spell bundled the opposition out for just 38, a record-low total in ODI matches. His remarkable performance showcased not just pace and accuracy but also strategic brilliance, cementing his place in cricketing history. While Vaas holds the top spot, several other bowlers have also produced unforgettable spells that make the record books. Let’s take a look at the top 10 most wickets in a single ODI match and the legends behind these extraordinary feats.
| Bowler | Wickets | Country | Runs Conceded | Date |
| Chaminda Vaas | 8 | Sri Lanka | 19 | 8 Dec 2001 |
| Shahid Afridi | 7 | Pakistan | 12 | 14 Jul 2013 |
| Glenn McGrath | 7 | Australia | 15 | 27 Feb 2003 |
| Rashid Khan | 7 | Afghanistan | 18 | 9 Jun 2017 |
| Andy Bichel | 7 | Australia | 20 | 2 Mar 2003 |
| Muttiah Muralitharan | 7 | Sri Lanka | 30 | 27 Oct 2000 |
| Tim Southee | 7 | New Zealand | 33 | 20 Feb 2018 |
| Trent Boult | 7 | New Zealand | 34 | 23 Dec 2017 |
| Waqar Younis | 7 | Pakistan | 36 | 17 Jun 2001 |
| Aaqib Javed | 7 | Pakistan | 37 | 25 Oct 1991 |
Chaminda Vaas
Chaminda Vaas is a legendary Sri Lankan fast bowler known for his accuracy and clever bowling. He holds the record for the most wickets in single odi match, taking an incredible 8 wickets for just 19 runs against Zimbabwe on December 8, 2001. In that match, Vaas completely dominated the game, helping Sri Lanka bowl out Zimbabwe for only 38 runs—the lowest team total in ODI history. His amazing performance is remembered as one of the greatest bowling feats in cricket and shows how skill, focus, and strategy can change the course of a match.
Shahid Afridi
Shahid Afridi, famously known as “Boom Boom Afridi,” is one of Pakistan’s most explosive all-rounders. While he gained worldwide fame for his aggressive batting, Afridi was equally deadly with the ball. On July 14, 2013, playing against the West Indies, Afridi delivered one of the most remarkable bowling performances in ODI history. He took 7 wickets while conceding only 12 runs, showing exceptional control and skill.
His pace, variations, and ability to read the batsmen made it almost impossible for the West Indies to score runs or build partnerships. This spell was not only crucial in securing a win for Pakistan but also showcased Afridi’s versatility as a cricketer. Even years later, cricket fans remember this game as a perfect example of his match-winning talent and his place among the top ODI bowlers in history.
Glenn McGrath
Glenn McGrath, one of Australia’s greatest fast bowlers, is famous for his consistent line and length and his ability to trouble even the best batsmen. His name is etched among the finest bowlers who have produced record-breaking wicket hauls in one-day internationals. On February 27, 2003, against Namibia, McGrath delivered a phenomenal bowling performance, taking 7 wickets for just 15 runs.
His accuracy, subtle variations, and intelligent use of the pitch made it extremely difficult for the Namibian batsmen to score. This spell not only helped Australia dominate the match but also added another milestone to McGrath’s illustrious career. Even today, his performance is remembered as one of the finest examples of control and skill in ODI bowling history.
Rashid Khan
Rashid Khan, Afghanistan’s young spin wizard, stunned the cricketing world with his remarkable talent and maturity beyond his years. On June 9, 2017, facing the West Indies, he bowled one of the finest spells in ODI history, grabbing 7 wickets for only 18 runs. His quick arm action, sharp turn, and deceptive variations completely unsettled the opposition, leaving their batting lineup in tatters. That performance not only sealed a famous win for Afghanistan but also established Rashid as one of the most dangerous spinners in modern-day cricket.
This spell not only secured a dominating victory for Afghanistan but also showcased Rashid’s brilliance on the international stage. His ability to combine precision with aggression makes him one of the most feared bowlers in ODI cricket today.
Andy Bichel
Australian bowler Andy Bichel showcased his brilliance on March 2, 2003, against England when he claimed 7 wickets for just 20 runs. Known for his accuracy and tactical intelligence, Bichel exploited every opportunity, keeping the batsmen under constant pressure.
The Impact of Record-Breaking Bowling in ODI Cricket
Record-breaking bowling performances have always played a crucial role in shaping the outcome of ODI matches. A bowler taking multiple wickets in a single game can completely shift momentum, putting the batting side under immense pressure and often deciding the match within a few overs.
These exceptional spells not only showcase individual skill and strategy but also inspire teammates and fans alike. From dismantling strong batting lineups to creating historic wins, such performances highlight the importance of precision, consistency, and mental toughness in cricket. Over the years, these record-breaking bowling feats have become legendary moments, celebrated and remembered as defining highlights of ODI history.
Conclusion
Bowling brilliance has always been at the heart of ODI cricket, and the performances featured in this list are proof of that. From Chaminda Vaas’s record 8 wickets to the incredible spells by Shahid Afridi, Glenn McGrath, and Rashid Khan, these feats demonstrate how a single player can change the course of a match. They serve as a reminder that cricket is not just about scoring runs, but also about the art of taking wickets and dominating the game. These legendary performances will continue to inspire bowlers and thrill fans for generations to come.
FAQs
Q1: Who holds the record for the most wickets in a single ODI match?
A: Chaminda Vaas of Sri Lanka holds the record, taking 8 wickets for 19 runs against Zimbabwe in 2001.
Q2: Has any bowler ever taken 9 or 10 wickets in an ODI?
A: No, the highest so far is 8 wickets in an ODI innings. No bowler has managed to claim all 10 wickets in the limited-overs format.
Q3: How many bowlers have taken 7 or more wickets in a single ODI?
A: Only a handful of bowlers, including Shahid Afridi, Rashid Khan, and Andy Bichel, have taken 7 wickets in a one-day international.
Q4. Which cricketer has managed to claim 8 wickets in a single ODI game?
A: The rare achievement of 8 wickets in an ODI belongs exclusively to Chaminda Vaas.
Q5: Which Indian bowler has the best bowling figures in ODIs?
A: Stuart Binny holds the record for India with figures of 6 wickets for 4 runs against Bangladesh in 2014.
Q6: Are these records likely to be broken in modern cricket?
A: With changing pitch conditions, improved batting, and shorter boundaries, it’s difficult—but not impossible. Exceptional bowlers may still challenge these records in the future.
