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Selecting the greatest fast bowler in T20 internationals is one of the toughest debates in modern cricket. The shortest format has seen a generation of exceptional pace bowlers who have mastered skills once considered impossible in high-scoring games. From toe-crushing yorkers to clever slower balls and ice-cold temperament under pressure, several modern-day legends have left an undeniable imprint on T20 cricket. With such depth of talent across eras and nations, crowning one bowler above all others is a challenge that demands clarity, experience, and conviction.
Zaheer Khan picks the greatest T20I pacer of all-time
Former India and Mumbai Indians pacer Zaheer Khan recently stepped into this debate and offered a decisive verdict. Speaking during an interaction with Cricbuzz, the former left-arm seamer was asked to pick the greatest T20I pace bowler of all time through a unique elimination-style exercise. Zaheer was presented with a long list of elite fast bowlers, including some of the most feared names the format has seen.
The format of the discussion involved choosing one bowler over another, with the winner progressing to the next round. As the options narrowed, the contest eventually came down to two standout names—India’s Jasprit Bumrah and Sri Lanka’s retired pace icon Lasith Malinga. Despite Malinga’s towering legacy and his revolutionary impact on T20 bowling, Zaheer opted for Bumrah, backing the Indian speedster as the finest T20I pacer the game has produced.
Zaheer’s choice carries weight, given his own pedigree as one of India’s sharpest new-ball bowlers and his first-hand understanding of fast bowling at the highest level. His decision reflects not just raw numbers, but also Bumrah’s adaptability, consistency, and influence across conditions.
Star pacer’s impressive numbers back the verdict
Since making his T20I debut in 2016, Bumrah has been a cornerstone of India’s bowling attack. In 85 T20 internationals, the right-arm pacer has claimed 106 wickets at an impressive average of 18.09. His ability to strike at crucial moments has made him a match-winner rather than just a containing bowler.
One of his standout performances came during the T20 World Cup 2024 clash against Afghanistan in Bridgetown, Barbados, where he returned figures of 4 for 17. The tournament as a whole further cemented his reputation. Bumrah finished the competition with 15 wickets in eight innings at a remarkable average of 8.26, earning the Player of the Tournament award.
His spell of 4 overs for 18 runs and 2 wickets in the final against South Africa highlighted his composure on the biggest stage. Bumrah is also among a select group of Indian bowlers to cross the 100-wicket mark in T20Is, underlining his longevity and consistency.
Also READ: Waqar Younis explains why Jasprit Bumrah is the best bowler of modern-day cricket
High expectations ahead of T20 World Cup 2026
With India gearing up for the T20 World Cup 2026, expectations will once again rest heavily on Bumrah’s shoulders. His previous World Cup heroics have set a high benchmark, and he remains India’s premium weapon in pressure situations. Having learned valuable lessons during his time alongside Malinga at Mumbai Indians, especially the art of bowling pinpoint yorkers, Bumrah now leads India’s attack with authority.
Also READ: Adam Zampa picks his best all-time T20 XI; no place for MS Dhoni
