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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