Choosing the greatest fast bowler in T20 internationals is one of the toughest debates in modern cricket. The highest-scoring games in the shortest format have seen a generation of exceptional pace bowlers who have mastered skills once thought impossible. From toe-crushing yorkers to clever slower balls and an ice-cold temperament under pressure, several modern legends have left an undeniable mark on T20 cricket. With such a depth of talent across eras and nations, picking one bowler above the rest is a challenge that requires clarity, experience and conviction.
Zaheer Khan picks the greatest T20I pace of all time
Former India and Mumbai Indians pacer Zaheer Khan recently stepped into this debate and delivered 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 screening-style exercise. A long list of elite fast bowlers has been unveiled, including some of the most fearsome names the format has ever seen.
The format of the debate consisted of choosing one bowler over the other, with the winner advancing to the next round. As the choices narrowed down, the competition eventually came down to two prominent names – India jasprit bumrah and Sri Lanka’s retired pace icon Lasith Malinga. Despite Malinga’s great legacy and his revolutionary impact on T20 bowling, Zaheer singled out Bumrah, backing the Indian speedster as the best T20I pacer the game has produced.
Given his pedigree as one of India’s sharpest new-ball bowlers and his supreme understanding of fast bowling, Zaheer’s selection carries weight. His decision reflects not just raw numbers but Bumrah’s adaptability, consistency and impact.
The star pacer’s impressive numbers confirm the verdict
Since his T20I debut in 2016, Bumrah has been the 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 made him not just a bowler but a match winner.
One of his notable performances came during the 2024 T20 World Cup against Afghanistan in Bridgetown, Barbados, where he returned figures of 4 for 17. The tournament as a whole further strengthened his reputation. Bumrah finished the tournament with 15 wickets in eight overs at an average of 8.26 and won the Player of the Tournament award.
His 4 overs and 2 wickets for 18 runs in the final against South Africa highlighted his composure on the biggest stage. Bumrah is also among the select group of Indian bowlers to cross the 100-mark in T20Is, highlighting his longevity and consistency.
Also READ: Waqar Younis explains why Jasprit Bumrah is the best bowler in modern cricket
High expectations from T20 World Cup 2026
As India prepares for the T20 World Cup 2026, expectations will once again rest on Bumrah’s shoulders. His heroics in the previous World Cup set the bar high and he remains India’s premium weapon in pressure situations. Having learned valuable lessons during his stint with Malinga at Mumbai Indians, especially the art of bowling, Bumrah now authoritatively leads India’s attack.
Also READ: Adam Zampa picks his best T20 XI of all time; No place for MS Dhoni
