By Batsman.PK 
Top Bowling Performances in ICC Cricket World Cup History
The ICC Cricket World Cup has witnessed some of the most remarkable bowling performances, with bowlers delivering match-winning spells under intense pressure.
1. Glenn McGrath – 7/15 vs Namibia (2003)
Match Details: Pool A, Potchefstroom, South Africa.
Glenn McGrath produced the best bowling figures in World Cup history with a devastating 7/15. Using his trademark accuracy, McGrath dismantled Namibia’s batting lineup, reducing them to 45 all out in just 14 overs. This performance underlined McGrath’s status as one of the greatest fast bowlers of all time.
2. Andy Bichel – 7/20 vs England (2003)
Match Details: Super Six, Port Elizabeth, South Africa.
In a must-win game for Australia, Andy Bichel delivered a career-best 7/20. His lethal combination of pace and swing broke the back of England’s batting order. Bichel’s spell was instrumental in setting up a manageable chase, and his all-round contribution with the bat helped Australia clinch a thrilling victory.
3. Tim Southee – 7/33 vs England (2015)
Match Details: Pool A, Wellington, New Zealand.
Tim Southee’s magical swing bowling spell left England in tatters. He bowled with incredible precision, taking 7 wickets for just 33 runs. England managed only 123 runs, and New Zealand chased it down in just 12.2 overs, highlighting Southee’s dominance.
4. Shahid Afridi – 5/16 vs Kenya (2011)
Match Details: Group A, Hambantota, Sri Lanka.
Shahid Afridi’s leg-spin wreaked havoc against Kenya in the 2011 World Cup. With figures of 5/16, Afridi was the cornerstone of Pakistan’s bowling attack, dismissing Kenya for a paltry total and asserting Pakistan’s dominance in the tournament.
5. Gary Gilmour – 6/14 vs England (1975)
Match Details: Semi-Final, Leeds, England.
Gary Gilmour’s 6/14 in the first-ever World Cup semi-final is considered one of the greatest performances in the tournament’s history. His left-arm swing bowling was unplayable, bundling England out for just 93 runs. Gilmour’s contribution helped Australia reach the final of the inaugural World Cup.
6. Ashish Nehra – 6/23 vs England (2003)
Match Details: Pool A, Durban, South Africa.
Ashish Nehra’s breathtaking spell of 6/23 came under the lights in Durban. Nehra bowled with exceptional discipline, exploiting the seam-friendly conditions to dismantle England’s batting lineup. This match was a key turning point in India’s journey to the final.
7. Lasith Malinga – 4 Wickets in 4 Balls vs South Africa (2007)
Match Details: Super Eight, Guyana, West Indies.
Lasith Malinga created history by becoming the first bowler to take 4 wickets in 4 consecutive balls in an ODI. His deadly yorkers and slower deliveries nearly won the game for Sri Lanka in a dramatic finish against South Africa. Malinga’s unique ability to perform in crunch moments made him a World Cup legend.
8. Michael Holding – 5/21 vs Australia (1979)
Match Details: Final, Lord’s, England.
Michael Holding’s fiery spell of 5/21 in the 1979 World Cup final was a masterclass in fast bowling. His raw pace and hostility were too much for Australia’s batters to handle, ensuring the West Indies retained their title with ease.
9. Mitchell Starc – 6/28 vs New Zealand (2015)
Match Details: Pool A, Auckland, New Zealand.
Mitchell Starc’s 6/28 nearly pulled off a miraculous win for Australia in a low-scoring thriller. His ability to swing the ball late and bowl deadly yorkers made life difficult for New Zealand, even as they edged home in a nail-biter.
10. Saqlain Mushtaq – 5/35 vs Bangladesh (1999)
Match Details: Group Stage, Northampton, England.
Saqlain Mushtaq showcased his mastery of off-spin during Pakistan’s group-stage clash against Bangladesh. His variations, including the “doosra,” proved too much for the opposition, making him one of the standout bowlers of the 1999 World Cup.
Conclusion
These exceptional performances highlight the critical role bowlers play in shaping the outcome of matches in the ICC Cricket World Cup. From devastating pace to cunning spin, these players have etched their names in history through their unforgettable feats on cricket’s biggest stage.