Arshdeep Singh Becomes India's Leading T20I Wicket-Taker

Arshdeep Singh achieved a significant milestone in T20 cricket by becoming India's leading wicket-taker in the format during the second T20I against New Zealand at Hagley Oval in Christchurch. He took 2 wickets for 33 runs, bringing his total to 38 wickets in 2026, surpassing Bhuvneshwar Kumar's previous record of 37 wickets set in 2022.

Arshdeep reached this landmark in just 26 innings, while Bhuvneshwar had taken 31 innings to achieve his record. This accomplishment places Arshdeep among the top bowlers from full-member nations in T20Is for a calendar year, now tied with Sri Lanka's Wanindu Hasaranga and just one wicket shy of Ireland's Josh Little, who holds the record with 39 wickets.

In the match, Arshdeep made an early impact by dismissing Tim Seifert, contributing to New Zealand's struggles at 41 for 3 in the powerplay. Despite a strong recovery from Glenn Phillips and Bevon Jacobs, who added 116 runs for the fourth wicket, India's chase was challenging, with the team at 112 for 6 at one point. Tilak Varma's unbeaten 51 off 26 balls was crucial in keeping India's hopes alive.