Lungi Ngidi Claims Historic T20 World Cup Milestone for Proteas
Ngidi achieves milestone during South Africa’s T20 World Cup fixture, surpassing Shamsi’s wicket tally.
South African pacer Lungi Ngidi etched his name into the record books during the ongoing ICC Men's T20 World Cup 2026, surpassing teammate Tabraiz Shamsi to become the leading wicket-taker in T20 International cricket for South Africa. The milestone came in a Super Eight dead-rubber clash against Zimbabwe at Delhi's Arun Jaitley Stadium on March 1, 2026, where Ngidi claimed figures of 1/29 in his four-over spell, pushing his career T20I tally to 90 wickets.
Ngidi achieved the feat in just 63 T20I matches, boasting an impressive average of 20.48, three four-wicket hauls, and a career-best of 5/39, including one five-wicket performance. He overtook left-arm wrist-spinner Tabraiz Shamsi, who held the previous record with 89 wickets in 70 T20Is at an average of 20.89, also featuring three four-fers and one five-for with best figures of 5/24. The record underscores Ngidi's consistency as a white-ball specialist, particularly his ability to deliver in high-pressure scenarios.
In the current T20 World Cup, Ngidi has been in exceptional form, emerging as the second-highest wicket-taker overall with 12 scalps at an outstanding average of 13.75, including a four-wicket haul. His performances have included back-to-back Player of the Match awards earlier in the tournament, highlighting a strong resurgence following injury setbacks and team selections. Teammate Shamsi has publicly praised Ngidi's resilience, work ethic, and match-winning ability, noting the close brotherhood that has fueled his comeback on the global stage.
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This achievement adds to South Africa's bowling depth in the tournament, where pacers like Ngidi complement spinners and all-rounders in varied conditions. With the Proteas navigating the Super Eight phase, Ngidi's record-breaking spell against Zimbabwe—though in a non-decisive match—demonstrates his value as a key asset heading into potential knockout encounters. Cricket South Africa and fans celebrated the milestone on social media, hailing Ngidi's climb to the top as a "deserved spot" for the seamer's contributions to the national side.
As the T20 World Cup progresses amid intense competition, Ngidi's record not only marks a personal triumph but also strengthens South Africa's legacy in the shortest format. Observers anticipate further milestones from the 29-year-old, whose economy and wicket-taking prowess continue to make him a vital component of the Proteas' campaign for their maiden T20 World Cup title.
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