The ICC T20 World Cup is among the most eagerly anticipated events on the cricketing calendar, starting from 7th February 2026, where teams from across the globe arrive with the same objective—to perform at their absolute best on the biggest stage. In a format where teams push relentlessly to maximise runs within just 20 overs, the fine line between aggression and collapse is always present.

On occasions, the pursuit of quick runs backfires, leading to dramatic batting failures and unexpectedly low totals. In this article, we take a look at the top three lowest team totals ever recorded in the history of the ICC Men’s T20 World Cup.

1. 39/10 (Uganda) vs West Indies- 2024 T20 World Cup

The 2024 ICC Men’s T20 World Cup witnessed a historic low when the Uganda national cricket team were bowled out for just 39 runs against the West Indies national cricket team at Providence. Uganda never settled at the crease as the West Indies bowlers struck relentlessly from the start.

The collapse was headlined by Akeal Hosein, who produced a devastating spell to finish as the leading wicket-taker with five wickets, completely dismantling the batting order and sealing one of the most one-sided matches in T20 World Cup history.

2. 39/10 (Netherlands) vs Sri Lanka- 2014 T20 World Cup

The 2014 ICC Men’s T20 World Cup also witnessed one of the most one-sided contests in tournament history during the clash between the Sri Lanka national cricket team and the Netherlands. After opting to field, Sri Lanka struck immediately, reducing the Netherlands to three wickets for just one run.

The Dutch side never recovered from the collapse and were bundled out for a mere 39 runs, the joint lowest total ever recorded in ICC T20 World Cup history. Angelo Mathews and Ajantha Mendis claimed three wickets each, with Sri Lanka chasing it in just five overs.

3. 40/10 (Uganda) vs New Zealand- 2024 T20 World Cup

Uganda’s struggles continued in the same tournament when they were dismissed for 40 runs against the New Zealand national cricket team at Tarouba, registering the third-lowest total in T20 World Cup history. Batting first, Uganda failed to form any meaningful partnerships as New Zealand’s disciplined attack applied constant pressure.

The bowling effort was led by Tim Southee, who emerged as the highest wicket-taker in the innings by scalping three wickets and conceding just an economical four runs. This helped set the tone for a dominant display that highlighted New Zealand’s superiority on the global stage.