Rashid Khan Makes History as First Bowler to Take 200 Men’s T20I Wickets

Afghanistan leg-spinner Rashid Khan has become the first bowler to take 200 wickets in men’s Twenty20 Internationals, reaching the landmark during his country’s second T20I against Zimbabwe in Sharjah on Thursday.

The 28-year-old achieved the historic feat in his 120th appearance in the format when he dismissed Zimbabwe wicketkeeper-batter Tadiwanashe Marumani for two runs during the visitors’ chase of Afghanistan’s target of 222.

Rashid finished the match with figures of one wicket for 29 runs from four overs as Afghanistan secured a 19-run victory to take an unassailable 2-0 lead in the three-match series.

His achievement puts him at the top of the men’s T20I wicket-taking list, 29 wickets ahead of England’s Adil Rashid, who has 171 wickets from 153 matches, according to Reuters and the International Cricket Council.

The milestone further strengthens Rashid’s reputation as one of the most successful bowlers in the shortest format of international cricket. Known for his leg-spin, variations and ability to take wickets in the middle overs, he has also established himself as a leading figure in Afghanistan’s rise in international cricket.

Rashid’s record came on a memorable night for Afghanistan, who recovered from a disastrous start with the bat to post 221 for seven in their 20 overs.

The hosts had slumped to five wickets for just 38 runs before Azmatullah Omarzai and Ijaz Ahmad Ahmadzai produced a remarkable recovery. Omarzai struck 116 from 50 deliveries, including five fours and 12 sixes, while Ijaz contributed 52 from 27 balls.

The pair shared a 142-run partnership for the sixth wicket, helping Afghanistan recover from the early collapse and set Zimbabwe a challenging target.

Zimbabwe fought back through captain Sikandar Raza, who scored an unbeaten 106, but finished on 202 for five, falling 19 runs short of victory.

Rashid’s achievement adds to his already impressive international career. He previously became Afghanistan’s first bowler to take 200 wickets in One-Day Internationals in October 2025.

For Afghanistan, the victory combined an individual record with a significant team performance, as the side secured the series before the third and final match scheduled for November 1.