With the 2026 ICC Men’s T20 World Cup underway, bowlers who can control the scoring rate are as valuable as explosive batters. In a format dominated by aggressive strokeplay, maintaining a low economy rate highlights exceptional skill, discipline, and game awareness.

Over the years, a few bowlers have stood out for their ability to consistently restrict runs while delivering crucial breakthroughs on the biggest stage. In this article, we look at the top three bowlers with the best economy rates in T20 World Cup history (Players having played a minimum of 10 ICC T20 World Cup matches and 10 wickets).

1. Sunil Narine (West Indies) - 5.17 

Sunil Narine remains one of the most economical bowlers in ICC Men’s T20 World Cup history, known for his mystery spin and exceptional control. Between 2012 and 2014, he played 12 matches, claiming 15 wickets while maintaining a remarkable economy rate of 5.17, one of the best among regular bowlers in the tournament.

Narine’s ability to restrict scoring during the power play and middle overs made him a crucial weapon for West Indies, particularly during their successful campaigns. His variations, subtle changes in pace, and disciplined lines consistently pressured batters, allowing him to dominate even on batting-friendly surfaces.

2. Jasprit Bumrah (India)- 5.44

Jasprit Bumrah’s rise as one of the finest T20 bowlers is reflected in his impressive T20 World Cup numbers. Across 18 matches from 2016 to 2024, he has taken 26 wickets while maintaining an outstanding economy rate of 5.44, highlighting his ability to control runs in high-pressure situations.

Known for his unique action, pinpoint yorkers, and calm temperament, Bumrah excels during both the powerplay and death overs — phases where run containment is typically challenging. His consistency against top international batters has made him a key figure in India’s bowling attack and one of the most reliable economical bowlers in T20 World Cup history.

3. Samuel Badree (West Indies)- 5.52

Samuel Badree’s impact in the ICC Men’s T20 World Cup came through disciplined leg-spin and exceptional accuracy. Playing 15 matches between 2012 and 2016, he picked up 24 wickets while maintaining an impressive economy rate of 5.52, making him one of the most economical bowlers among regular performers.

Badree specialised in bowling tight lines during the powerplay, often opening the bowling and immediately building pressure on opposition batters. His ability to combine wicket-taking threat with strict run control played a significant role in the West Indies’ success during this period, showcasing the effectiveness of spin bowling in the shortest format.