Rashid Khan Makes History: First Bowler to Reach 200 T20I Wickets

Afghanistan’s star leg‑spinner Rashid Khan etched his name into cricket history by becoming the first bowler to claim 200 wickets in men’s T20 Internationals. The milestone was achieved during the second T20I against Zimbabwe at Sharjah Cricket Stadium on Thursday. Rashid dismissed Zimbabwe wicket‑keeper Tadiwanashe Marumani for a duck, securing the 200th wicket while Zimbabwe chased a target of 222.

The record further cemented Rashid’s position at the top of the all‑time T20I wicket‑takers’ list. He made his international debut against Zimbabwe in October 2015 and became the format’s leading wicket‑taker in September 2025, overtaking New Zealand’s Tim Southee during a tri‑series match against the UAE in Sharjah.

Afghanistan’s innings was a comeback story. After a disastrous start, Azmatullah Omarzai smashed 116 off 50 balls, including 12 sixes, and shared a 142‑run sixth‑wicket partnership with Ijaz Ahmad Ahmadzai. Rashid added an unbeaten 25 in the final overs, helping Afghanistan finish 221/7.

Zimbabwe’s chase was led by captain Sikandar Raza, who scored his second T20I century. Despite a spirited effort, Zimbabwe fell 19 runs short. The win extended Afghanistan’s dominance over Zimbabwe to eight successive T20I series victories.

Key statistics:

• Rashid Khan: 120 matches, 200 wickets, 13.99 average, 6.12 economy
• Other leading wicket‑takers: Adil Rashid (England), Ehsan Khan (Hong Kong), Ish Sodhi (New Zealand), Tim Southee (New Zealand)

The achievement was celebrated by Rashid’s teammates and fans alike, marking a historic moment for Afghan cricket.

To verify the announcement, check the official match scorecard on the ICC website or reputable cricket databases such as ESPNcricinfo.