In the history of cricket, bowlers have played a pivotal role in shaping results and creating memorable moments. While batters often dominate headlines with centuries, it is the bowlers who provide breakthroughs, restrict runs, and swing the momentum in matches. Women’s cricket has seen a remarkable rise over the decades, and one of the most celebrated achievements for bowlers is claiming wickets consistently in One Day Internationals (ODIs). From legendary seamers to crafty spinners, the Most Wickets in Women’s ODI Cricket list highlights players who have defined eras with their bowling excellence.
This article presents the top 20 record holders for the all-time highest wicket-takers in Women’s ODIs. Along with their statistics, we explore their careers, bowling styles, and contributions to the game. The dominance of these cricketers not only reflects their skill but also their longevity, fitness, and ability to perform across conditions. Whether it’s India’s Jhulan Goswami with her record-breaking tally or South Africa’s Shabnim Ismail with her fiery pace, these bowlers symbolize the backbone of women’s cricket.
Importance of Wickets in Women’s ODI Cricket
Wickets are more than just numbers; they are match-defining events that shift the flow of a game. Bowlers who consistently take wickets give their teams an edge by:
- Breaking partnerships: A crucial wicket at the right time can dismantle even the strongest batting orders.
- Maintaining pressure: Wickets restrict runs, forcing batters into a defensive shell.
- Balancing formats: In ODIs, where batting dominance is common, a strong bowler levels the playing field.
- Building legacies: Bowlers remembered for their wickets often become national icons and inspire future generations.
The Most Wickets in Women’s ODI Cricket list is thus not just a record but a testament to the dedication, skill, and tactical brilliance of these bowlers.
Top 20 Players with the Most Wickets in Women’s ODI Cricket
Here’s the complete table of the top 20 wicket-takers in Women’s ODIs:
| Name | Country | Matches | Innings (Bowling) | Wickets | Best Innings Figures | Span |
| Jhulan Goswami | India | 204 | 203 | 255 | 6/31 | 2002-2022 |
| Shabnim Ismail | South Africa | 127 | 126 | 191 | 6/10 | 2007-2022 |
| Cathryn Fitzpatrick | Australia | 109 | 109 | 180 | 5/14 | 1993-2007 |
| Anisa Mohammed | West Indies | 141 | 134 | 180 | 7/14 | 2003-2022 |
| Katherine Sciver-Brunt | England | 141 | 139 | 170 | 5/18 | 2005-2022 |
| Marizanne Kapp | South Africa | 151 | 141 | 167 | 5/45 | 2009-2024 |
| Ellyse Perry | Australia | 155 | 137 | 166 | 7/22 | 2007-2025 |
| Stafanie Taylor | West Indies | 170 | 138 | 155 | 4/17 | 2008-2024 |
| Sana Mir | Pakistan | 120 | 118 | 151 | 5/32 | 2005-2019 |
| Lisa Sthalekar | Australia | 125 | 123 | 146 | 5/35 | 2001-2013 |
| Neetu David | India | 97 | 97 | 141 | 5/20 | 1995-2008 |
| Jess Jonassen | Australia | 107 | 103 | 138 | 5/32 | 2012-present |
| Dane van Niekerk | South Africa | 107 | 103 | 138 | 4/20 | 2013-present |
| Jenny Gunn | England | 144 | 136 | 136 | 5/22 | 2004-2019 |
| Deepti Sharma | India | 124 | 123 | 136 | 4/16 | 2014-present |
Player Profiles & Contributions
Jhulan Goswami (India)
Jhulan Goswami stands at the top with 255 wickets in Women’s ODI cricket, making her the most prolific bowler in history. Known for her towering height and impeccable seam movement, she dominated across two decades. Her ability to swing the ball both ways made her lethal against top-order batters. Goswami’s best figures of 6/31 reflect her match-winning ability, while her longevity from 2002 to 2022 speaks volumes about her consistency and fitness. She remains an icon in world cricket, inspiring young pacers globally.
| Stat | Data |
| Matches | 204 |
| Innings | 203 |
| Balls | 10,005 |
| Runs | 5,622 |
| Wickets | 255 |
| Best Bowling | 6/31 |
| Bowling Average | 22.04 |
| Economy Rate | 3.37 |
| Strike Rate | 39.2 |
| 4-Wicket Hauls | 7 |
| 5-Wicket Hauls | 2 |
| Career Span | 2002–2022 |
Shabnim Ismail (South Africa)
One of the fastest bowlers in women’s cricket, Shabnim Ismail claimed 191 wickets in ODIs. Her fiery pace, aggression, and ability to bowl yorkers at will made her a nightmare for batters. Best figures of 6/10 highlight her destructive nature. Representing South Africa from 2007 to 2022, Ismail became the face of Proteas bowling and an inspiration for upcoming speedsters.
| Stat | Data |
| Matches | 127 |
| Innings | 126 |
| Balls | 6,170 |
| Runs | 3,812 |
| Wickets | 191 |
| Best Bowling | 6/10 |
| Bowling Average | 19.95 |
| Economy Rate | 3.70 |
| Strike Rate | 32.3 |
| 4-Wicket Hauls | 6 |
| 5-Wicket Hauls | 2 |
| Career Span | 2007–2022 |
Cathryn Fitzpatrick (Australia)
Before Ismail, Cathryn Fitzpatrick was considered the fastest bowler in women’s cricket. With 180 wickets in 109 matches, she spearheaded Australia’s bowling attack in the 1990s and early 2000s. Her sheer pace and accuracy allowed Australia to dominate globally, and her best of 5/14 remains iconic. Fitzpatrick’s contributions set the foundation for Australia’s bowling depth seen today.
| Stat | Data |
| Matches | 109 |
| Innings | 109 |
| Balls | 6,066 |
| Runs | 3,024 |
| Wickets | 180 |
| Best Bowling | 5/14 |
| Bowling Average | 16.79 |
| Economy Rate | 3.01 |
| Strike Rate | 33.7 |
| 4-Wicket Hauls | 8 |
| 5-Wicket Hauls | 2 |
| Career Span | 1993–2007 |
Anisa Mohammed (West Indies)
With 180 wickets, Anisa Mohammed holds the joint-third highest tally in Women’s ODIs. A master of off-spin, she often trapped batters with flight, dip, and sharp turn. Her best of 7/14 is among the finest spells in women’s cricket history. Representing West Indies from 2003 to 2022, she remains one of the most influential bowlers in Caribbean cricket.
| Stat | Data |
| Matches | 141 |
| Innings | 134 |
| Balls | 6,252 |
| Runs | 3,735 |
| Wickets | 180 |
| Best Bowling | 7/14 |
| Bowling Average | 20.75 |
| Economy Rate | 3.58 |
| Strike Rate | 34.7 |
| 4-Wicket Hauls | 7 |
| 5-Wicket Hauls | 6 |
| Career Span | 2003–2022 |
Katherine Sciver-Brunt (England)
Katherine Brunt, later Sciver-Brunt, collected 170 wickets across 141 matches. Known for her aggressive approach, swing bowling, and competitive nature, she was England’s go-to bowler in crunch moments. Her best of 5/18 shows her ability to decimate batting orders. Active from 2005 to 2022, she played a key role in England’s World Cup victories.
| Stat | Value |
| Matches | 141 |
| Innings | 139 |
| Balls | 6,847 |
| Runs | 4,081 |
| Wickets | 170 |
| Best Bowling | 5/18 |
| Bowling Average | 24.01 |
| Economy Rate | 3.58 |
| Strike Rate | 40.2 |
| 4-Wicket Hauls | 5 |
| 5-Wicket Hauls | 5 |
| Career Span | 2005–2022 |
Marizanne Kapp (South Africa)
Marizanne Kapp is among the finest all-rounders in women’s cricket, but her 167 wickets prove her exceptional bowling skills. Capable of generating movement even on flat tracks, Kapp consistently delivered breakthroughs. Her best of 5/45 underlines her wicket-taking ability, and her long career from 2009 to 2024 showcases her adaptability.
| Stat | Value |
| Matches | 151 |
| Innings | 141 |
| Balls | 6,267 |
| Runs | 3,977 |
| Wickets | 167 |
| Best Bowling | 5/45 |
| Bowling Average | 25.3 |
| Economy Rate | 3.80 |
| Strike Rate | 39.9 |
| 4-Wicket Hauls | 4 |
| 5-Wicket Hauls | 1 |
| Career Span | 2009–2024 |
Ellyse Perry (Australia)
Ellyse Perry is often celebrated for her batting, but her 166 ODI wickets cement her legacy as a true all-rounder. Known for her accuracy and ability to exploit conditions, Perry’s best of 7/22 remains one of the best ODI spells. Representing Australia since 2007, she continues to dominate across formats.
| Stat | Data |
| Matches | 155 |
| Innings | 137 |
| Balls | 5,614 |
| Runs | 4,213 |
| Wickets | 166 |
| Best Bowling | 7/22 |
| Bowling Average | 25.4 |
| Economy Rate | 4.38 |
| Strike Rate | 34.6 |
| 4-Wicket Hauls | 2 |
| 5-Wicket Hauls | 3 |
| Career Span | 2007–Present |
Stafanie Taylor (West Indies)
Another legendary all-rounder, Stafanie Taylor has 155 ODI wickets alongside her batting brilliance. Her off-spin has often turned games in West Indies’ favor. With a best of 4/17, she may not have many five-wicket hauls but her consistency makes her invaluable. Active since 2008, Taylor remains a cornerstone of West Indies cricket.
| Stat | Data |
| Matches | 170 |
| Innings | 138 |
| Balls | 5,698 |
| Runs | 3,359 |
| Wickets | 155 |
| Best Bowling | 4/17 |
| Bowling Average | 21.9 |
| Economy Rate | 3.53 |
| Strike Rate | 37.2 |
| 4-Wicket Hauls | 5 |
| 5-Wicket Hauls | 0 |
| Career Span | 2008–2024 |
Sana Mir (Pakistan)
Former Pakistan captain Sana Mir claimed 151 wickets in ODIs. A crafty off-spinner, she often bowled in tight spells to strangle batters. Her best of 5/32 reflects her ability to deliver under pressure. Between 2005 and 2019, Mir became a role model for Pakistani women cricketers.
| Stat | Data |
| Matches | 120 |
| Innings | 118 |
| Balls | 5,361 |
| Runs | 3,207 |
| Wickets | 151 |
| Best Bowling | 5/32 |
| Bowling Average | 21.2 |
| Economy Rate | 3.59 |
| Strike Rate | 35.5 |
| 4-Wicket Hauls | 4 |
| 5-Wicket Hauls | 1 |
| Career Span | 2005–2019 |
Lisa Sthalekar (Australia)
One of the greatest all-rounders, Lisa Sthalekar picked up 146 wickets in 125 matches. Her best figures of 5/35 came during crucial matches. From 2001 to 2013, she contributed equally with bat and ball, leaving a lasting legacy in Australian cricket.
| Stat | Data |
| Matches | 125 |
| Innings | 123 |
| Balls | 5,526 |
| Runs | 3,367 |
| Wickets | 146 |
| Best Bowling | 5/35 |
| Bowling Average | 23.0 |
| Economy Rate | 3.66 |
| Strike Rate | 37.8 |
| 4-Wicket Hauls | 5 |
| 5-Wicket Hauls | 1 |
| Career Span | 2001–2013 |
Top 5 Best Bowling Figures in an Innings in Women’s ODI Cricket
| Rank | Player | Figures (Wickets-Runs) | Overs | Maidens* | Opponent | Date |
| 1 | Sajjida Shah (Pakistan) | 7-4 | 8 overs | 5 maidens | Japan | 21 Jul 2003 |
| 2 | Anisa Mohammed (West Indies) | 7-14 | 8.3 overs | 1 maiden | Pakistan | 26 Nov 2011 |
| 3 | Ellyse Perry (Australia) | 7-22 | 10 overs | 4 maidens | England | 07 Jul 2019 |
| 4 | Shelley Nitschke (Australia) | 7-24 | 7.4 overs | 1 maiden | England | 19 Aug 2005 |
| 5 | Thipatcha Putthawong (Thailand) | 6-6 | 6.1 overs | 2 maidens | Zimbabwe | 19 Apr 2023 |
Analysis: Trends in Most Wickets in Women’s ODI Cricket
- India’s dominance: With legends like Goswami, Neetu David, Deepti Sharma, and Poonam Yadav, India features prominently in the list.
- Australia’s depth: Multiple Australians like Perry, Sthalekar, Jonassen, and Fitzpatrick show Australia’s all-round strength.
- Role of spinners: Spin dominates women’s cricket, with several top wicket-takers being off-spinners or left-arm orthodox bowlers.
- Longevity matters: Players with careers spanning over a decade consistently rank high due to durability and fitness.
- Rise of new stars: Young bowlers like Sophie Ecclestone and Deepti Sharma are set to redefine the future.
Conclusion
The record of the Most Wickets in Women’s ODI Cricket highlights the dominance and skill of legendary bowlers who have shaped the game. From Jhulan Goswami’s remarkable consistency to Shabnim Ismail’s fiery pace and Anisa Mohammed’s spin wizardry, these players showcase the variety and richness of women’s cricket. The top bowling figures in a single innings – such as Sajjida Shah’s stunning 7/4 and Ellyse Perry’s unforgettable 7/22 – prove how match-winning spells can define careers and tournaments.
These records are not just numbers; they are milestones that inspire future generations of cricketers. With women’s cricket gaining more visibility and global tournaments expanding, it is only a matter of time before new names challenge these long-standing records. The legacy of these wicket-takers ensures that bowling remains as thrilling and decisive as batting in ODI cricket.
FAQs
1. Who has taken the most wickets in Women’s ODI cricket?
Jhulan Goswami of India holds the record with 255 wickets in 204 matches. Known for her accuracy and swing bowling, she is regarded as the greatest fast bowler in women’s cricket history.
2. Which spinner has the highest wickets in Women’s ODIs?
Anisa Mohammed from the West Indies leads among spinners with 180 wickets, including a best of 7/14 against Pakistan, one of the best spells in ODI history.
3. What is the best bowling figure in a Women’s ODI innings?
The record belongs to Sajjida Shah of Pakistan, who took 7/4 against Japan in 2003, the most economical and destructive spell in women’s ODI cricket.
4. Who is the fastest bowler to reach 100 ODI wickets in Women’s cricket?
Cathryn Fitzpatrick (Australia) was among the fastest to achieve the milestone, reaching 100 wickets in just 64 matches, a record of consistency and pace dominance.
5. Which active player has the potential to break Jhulan Goswami’s record?
Shabnim Ismail retired in 2023 with 191 wickets, but current bowlers like Marizanne Kapp and Sophie Ecclestone are considered strong contenders to chase high wicket tallies if they maintain longevity.
6. How important are bowling records in Women’s ODI cricket?
Bowling records are crucial as they reflect match-winning contributions. A strong bowling performance can decide outcomes, balance batting dominance, and inspire young cricketers to take up fast bowling or spin.
Related Blog: Most Runs in Women’s ODI Cricket
