The powerplay overs in T20 cricket are crucial, as taking wickets early can dictate the match outcome. India has produced several bowlers who excel in overs 1-6, consistently providing breakthroughs and restricting runs. In this article, we explore the top 5 Indian bowlers with Most Wickets in Overs 1-6 in T20I, highlighting their skill, impact, and stats from the early overs of T20 matches.
5. Washington Sundar – Smart and Economical

Washington Sundar combines accuracy, subtle spin, and clever variations to succeed in the powerplay. His calm approach and smart bowling allow him to pick early wickets while controlling the run flow. With 21 wickets in the first six overs, Washington ranks among the top for Most Wickets in Overs 1-6 in T20I. His breakthroughs in crucial moments help India build early pressure and disrupt opposition partnerships, proving that intelligence and control in the powerplay can be just as effective as pace or spin.
| Wickets | Strike Rate | Overs Bowled | Economy Rate |
|---|---|---|---|
| 21 | 18.2 | 95 | 6.9 |
4. Axar Patel – Left-Arm Spin Wicket-Taker

Axar Patel’s left-arm spin has become a key weapon in T20Is, especially in the powerplay. Using clever variations, flight, and accuracy, he regularly strikes early, making it difficult for aggressive batsmen to dominate. With 21 wickets in overs 1-6, Axar holds a strong place among bowlers with Most Wickets in Overs 1-6 in T20I. His skillful approach allows India to maintain control, restrict scoring, and create pressure, often resulting in crucial breakthroughs that turn matches in India’s favor.
| Wickets | Strike Rate | Overs Bowled | Economy Rate |
|---|---|---|---|
| 21 | 16.2 | 90 | 7.5 |
3. Jasprit Bumrah – Fast and Fearless

Jasprit Bumrah’s unique action, pace, and pinpoint yorkers make him one of the most dangerous bowlers in overs 1-6. He consistently takes early wickets, providing India with an advantage in crucial matches. With 33 wickets, he is among the elite for Most Wickets in Overs 1-6 in T20I. Bumrah’s breakthroughs often dismantle opposition top-orders, allowing India to control the game’s momentum. His aggression combined with precision ensures that batsmen remain under pressure from the first ball of the innings.
| Wickets | Strike Rate | Overs Bowled | Economy Rate |
|---|---|---|---|
| 33 | 25.4 | 120 | 6.8 |
2. Bhuvneshwar Kumar – Master of Swing

Bhuvneshwar Kumar is a veteran swing bowler who thrives in the powerplay. His ability to move the ball both ways and maintain line and length makes him a constant threat. With 47 wickets in the first six overs, Bhuvneshwar is a top contender for Most Wickets in Overs 1-6 in T20I. His experience and control allow him to consistently break partnerships, reduce scoring rates, and put pressure on the opposition, making him a vital part of India’s T20I bowling attack.
| Wickets | Strike Rate | Overs Bowled | Economy Rate |
|---|---|---|---|
| 47 | 24.5 | 150 | 7.0 |
1. Arshdeep Singh – Early Wicket Specialist

Arshdeep Singh has rapidly become India’s most dangerous powerplay bowler. With pace, swing, and pinpoint accuracy, he consistently strikes early, providing India with crucial momentum. Topping the charts for Most Wickets in Overs 1-6 in T20I with 47 wickets, Arshdeep combines skill and consistency like no other. His ability to break opening partnerships ensures India gains early dominance in matches, and his performances have made him an indispensable part of India’s T20I squad, capable of changing games with every delivery.
| Wickets | Strike Rate | Overs Bowled | Economy Rate |
|---|---|---|---|
| 47 | 15.9 | 120 | 7.2 |
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FAQ
What does “Most Wickets in Overs 1-6 in T20Is” mean?
It refers to the bowlers who have taken the highest number of wickets in the first six overs (powerplay) of T20 matches.
Who leads India in Most Wickets in Overs 1-6 in T20Is?
Arshdeep Singh tops the list with 47 wickets, closely followed by Bhuvneshwar Kumar.
Why are wickets in overs 1-6 important?
Early wickets slow scoring, create pressure, and allow bowlers to dominate momentum, often deciding T20 match outcomes.
Can spinners succeed in powerplays?
Yes, Axar Patel and Washington Sundar have shown that smart variations and accurate spin can take early wickets.
How do these bowlers impact India’s T20I strategy?
Early breakthroughs help India control games, break partnerships, and maintain momentum, giving a strong advantage in high-stakes matches.



