While the headline might suggest bowlers are defying gravity ("flying in the sky"), a more accurate portrayal paints a picture of exceptional bowling performances despite a high-scoring tournament.
New Zealand's Lockie Ferguson rewrote the T20 World Cup record books. He surpassed Tanzim Hasan's record for most dot balls bowled in a single match (21) within 14 overs, conceding no runs and taking three wickets with four consecutive maidens. It's important to note that these matches weren't played on pitches specifically known for aiding bowlers, as Ferguson's feat occurred in Trinidad against Papua New Guinea, while Hasan achieved his in St Vincent's against Nepal.
This dominance extends beyond individual performances. The tournament has already seen a record 41 maiden overs bowled, surpassing the previous best of 21 set in Sri Lanka during the 2012 World Cup. Additionally, a staggering 520 wickets have fallen so far, exceeding the 2022 record of 515.
While these statistics showcase exceptional bowling, it's worth considering the increased number of teams participating in this year's World Cup (a record 20). With seven matches remaining, the total number of runs scored (currently at 12,504) is likely to surpass the previous record of 12,162.
Despite the high run-scoring, bowlers are averaging one wicket every 19.78 runs, surpassing the previous record of 22.49 set by Australia. Afghanistan's Fazlhaq Farooqui currently leads the wicket-taking charts with 15 dismissals, tying him for the second-highest in a single World Cup. With at least two matches remaining, he has a chance to break Wanindu Hasaranga's record of 16 wickets.
Several bowlers, including Australia's Adam Zampa, South Africa's Enrique Norkia, and West Indies' Alzarri Joseph (all with 11 wickets), have a shot at surpassing the previous record. With bowlers showcasing such dominance, the remaining matches of the World Cup hold the potential for even more record-breaking feats.
