Cricket is a sport that’s often dominated by batters, but bowlers are the unsung heroes who create the most magical moments. Over the years, we’ve witnessed bowlers from various generations who have left a massive impact on the game. Their ability to turn matches around, break partnerships, and pick crucial wickets at critical moments is what defines them as some of the best to ever play the game. Let’s take a look at the top 10 bowlers in the world 2025.
1. Mujeeb Ur Rahman (Afghanistan)
Mujeeb Ur Rahman has established himself as one of the most exciting spin bowlers in world cricket. The Afghan prodigy’s mystery spin, with the ability to turn the ball both ways, has made him a constant threat in all formats. His impressive economy rates in T20s and ODIs have earned him recognition as one of the leading spinners in world cricket.
Key Stats (2025):
- ODI wickets: 160+
- T20I wickets: 100+
- Best ODI figures: 5/21
2. Rashid Khan (Afghanistan)
Rashid Khan is another Afghan sensation who has taken world cricket by storm. He is known for his accuracy, control, and ability to pick up wickets in the middle overs. Rashid’s variations, including his devastating googly, have made him a vital asset for Afghanistan and one of the most sought-after T20 bowlers in the world.
Key Stats (2025):
- ODI wickets: 170+
- T20I wickets: 130+
- Best ODI figures: 5/29
3. Kagiso Rabada (South Africa)
Kagiso Rabada is one of the most lethal fast bowlers of the modern era. Known for his fiery pace and ability to generate bounce, Rabada has terrorized batters across the globe. His aggressive attitude and wicket-taking prowess have made him South Africa’s spearhead in all formats.
Key Stats (2025):
- Test wickets: 400+
- ODI wickets: 170+
- Best Test figures: 7/112
4. Jasprit Bumrah (India)
Jasprit Bumrah is often considered the best limited-overs bowler in the world. With his deadly yorkers and ability to bowl under pressure, Bumrah has taken the cricketing world by storm. His performances in the death overs are particularly impressive, making him one of the most reliable bowlers in international cricket.
Key Stats (2025):
- ODI wickets: 140+
- T20I wickets: 100+
- Best ODI figures: 5/27
5. Josh Hazlewood (Australia)
Josh Hazlewood has been Australia’s mainstay in all formats, especially in Test cricket. Known for his impeccable line and length, Hazlewood has the ability to move the ball both ways and consistently trouble batsmen. He is one of the finest fast bowlers of the current era.
Key Stats (2025):
- Test wickets: 230+
- ODI wickets: 100+
- Best Test figures: 6/52
6. Neil Wagner (New Zealand)
Neil Wagner is the heart of New Zealand’s bowling attack in Test cricket. His relentless aggression and ability to bowl long spells in difficult conditions make him one of the most dangerous bowlers in the world. Wagner’s seam movement and his ability to extract bounce from any surface have earned him a place in the top 10.
Key Stats (2025):
- Test wickets: 230+
- Best Test figures: 7/39
7. Shaheen Shah Afridi (Pakistan)
Shaheen Shah Afridi is Pakistan’s premier fast bowler, known for his ability to generate swing and pace. His tall frame allows him to extract bounce from any surface, and he has been a standout performer in all formats. Afridi’s ability to break partnerships and his knack for taking wickets at crucial moments makes him a top bowler.
Key Stats (2025):
- Test wickets: 130+
- ODI wickets: 160+
- Best ODI figures: 6/35
8. Ravichandran Ashwin (India)
Ravichandran Ashwin is one of the most successful bowlers in world cricket, especially in the longer format. His control over flight, spin, and variations has made him one of the most dangerous spinners in the world. Ashwin has taken wickets consistently in Test cricket and has been a crucial part of India’s bowling attack.
Key Stats (2025):
- Test wickets: 700+
- ODI wickets: 150+
- Best Test figures: 7/59
9. Mitchell Starc (Australia)
Mitchell Starc is known for his raw pace and ability to generate swing, especially with the new ball. He is Australia’s key bowler in limited-overs formats and has delivered several match-winning performances in ICC events. Starc’s ability to bowl at speeds exceeding 150 km/h and produce devastating deliveries makes him one of the best in the world.
Key Stats (2025):
- ODI wickets: 200+
- Test wickets: 200+
- Best ODI figures: 6/43
10. Dom Bess (England)
Dom Bess has become a mainstay in England’s spin attack, particularly in home conditions. His ability to turn the ball and adapt to different pitch conditions has made him a key player for England. Although still young, Bess’ consistency and ability to pick up wickets regularly put him among the best bowlers in the world.
Key Stats (2025):
- Test wickets: 150+
- Best Test figures: 5/51
Bowlers play a pivotal role in shaping the outcome of cricket matches. The names listed here are not just exceptional in terms of their individual performances but also have been instrumental in leading their teams to success. From the spin magic of Rashid and Mujeeb to the fast-bowling brilliance of Rabada and Bumrah, these players define the modern era of cricket.
As the game evolves, more bowlers will rise to prominence, but these top 10 have undoubtedly set a high benchmark in world cricket. Keep an eye on these players as they continue to mesmerize the cricketing world in 2025 and beyond.