Top 5 bowling efforts in league stage of World Cup 2023

CWC 2023: Top 5 bowling performances from the league phase. Five bowling performances that proved vital and helped team win difficult contest.

CWC 2023, India vs England_ Mohammed Shami took 4-22 against England in Lucknow _ Walking Wicket (Photo_ ©BCCI_Twitter) — Mohammed Shami took 5-54 against New Zealand (Photo: ©BCCI/Twitter)

The league stage of the CWC 2023 concluded, leaving cricket enthusiasts on the edge of their seats with remarkable performances, surprising setbacks, and thrilling comebacks. As the stage transitions to the knockout rounds, the cricketing world eagerly awaits the crowning moment on November 19 at the Narendra Modi Stadium in Ahmedabad, where one of the four semi-finalists—India, New Zealand, South Africa, or Australia—will lift the prestigious World Cup trophy.

In the league stages, both batting and bowling witnessed extraordinary feats. Here, we delve into the top five bowling performances that significantly altered the course of their respective matches.

Mohammed Shami's fiery spell against New Zealand (5-54)

Mohammed Shami, patiently awaiting his chance, seized the opportunity against New Zealand in Dharamsala with an extraordinary five-wicket haul. His figures of 5/54 in 10 overs marked India's first such achievement in the 2023 World Cup. Shami's pivotal breakthroughs dismantled crucial partnerships, making him the first Indian pacer to secure two five-wicket hauls in an ODI World Cup.

CWC 2023, Australia vs Pakistan_ Adam Zampa took 4-53 against Pakistan_ Walking Wicket (Photo_ ©cricketuas_Twitter) — Adam Zampa took 3-21 against England (Photo: ©cricketuas/Twitter)

Adam Zampa's Spin Magic Against England (3-21)

Australian leg-spinner Adam Zampa exhibited an exceptional performance against arch-rivals England, claiming three crucial wickets while conceding only 21 runs. Zampa's economical bowling, coupled with his remarkable tally of 19 wickets in the World Cup 2023, showcased his consistent impact. His pivotal dismissals played a crucial role in defending a modest total, solidifying his reputation as a standout player in the tournament.

ICC Men's T20 World Cup 2022_ Shaheen Shah Afridi back in Pakistan's T20 World Cup squad _ Walking Wicket (Photo_ ©Twitter) — Shaheen Afridi took 5-54 against Australia (Photo: ©X/Twitter)

Shaheen Afridi's Brilliance Against Australia (5-54)

In a high-scoring encounter against Australia, Shaheen Shah Afridi emerged as the saviour for Pakistan. Despite the onslaught from Aussie batters, Afridi's remarkable performance—securing 5 wickets for 54 runs—granted Pakistan a fighting chance in the game. Afridi's feat made him the second Pakistani bowler to achieve two five-wicket hauls in World Cup history and the first Pakistani pacer to accomplish this remarkable feat.

CWC 2023_ Will Ravindra Jadeja be playing against Pakistan given their record against left arm spin_ _ Walking Wicket (Photo_ ©BCCI_Twitter) — Ravindra Jadeja took 5-33 against South Africa (Photo: ©BCCI/Twitter)

Ravindra Jadeja's Spin Prowess Against South Africa (5-33)

After India set a formidable total of 326 runs for South Africa, Ravindra Jadeja showcased his spin mastery, efficiently dismissing the Proteas for a mere 83 runs. Introduced during the Power-play, Jadeja initiated his onslaught by dismantling Proteas' captain Temba Bavuma's off-stump, eventually securing five wickets for 33 runs. Jadeja joined an elite club, becoming the second Indian spinner to claim a five-wicket haul in World Cups.

Asia Cup 2023, Final, IND vs SL_ Mohammed Siraj's 6-21 helps India beat Sri Lanka _ Walking wicket (Images_ ©ICC_Twitter) — Mohammed Siraj took 3-16 against Sri Lanka (Images: ©ICC/Twitter)

Mohammed Siraj's Pace Show Against Sri Lanka (3-16)

In a dazzling display of fast bowling, Mohammed Siraj played a pivotal role in India's resounding 302-run victory against Sri Lanka. While Mohammed Shami registered a five-wicket haul, Siraj's fiery opening spell set the stage, claiming three wickets for no runs in the initial seven balls. Siraj's stellar performance included dismissing key Sri Lankan batsmen, contributing to their collapse to just three runs for four wickets within 19 deliveries.

As the cricketing world gears up for the knockout stages, these bowling maestros have etched their names in the annals of World Cup history, showcasing their skill, determination, and ability to turn the tide in their team's favour. The journey to lift the coveted World Cup trophy continues, promising more enthralling performances and nail-biting encounters.