ICC T20: The ICC T20 (International Cricket Council T20) rankings are a reflection of a player’s performance and consistency in the shortest format of the game. The T20 format is characterized by fast-paced, high-scoring matches, where bowlers play a pivotal role in controlling the game.
In 2016, several bowlers stood out in T20 cricket, delivering exceptional performances in international competitions, leagues, and series, making them worthy of recognition in the ICC T20 Bowler Rankings. This article will provide an overview of the top-ranked bowlers in the ICC T20 Bowler Rankings of 2016, highlighting their statistics, performances, and contributions to their teams.
Understanding ICC T20 Bowler Rankings
The ICC T20 Bowler Rankings are calculated using a points-based system, where a bowler earns points based on their performance in T20 international matches. The rankings take into account several factors, such as the number of wickets taken, economy rate, strike rate, and the quality of opposition faced. Consistent performances across multiple series and tournaments are crucial for bowlers to climb up the rankings.
ICC T20 Bowler Rankings of 2016
In 2016, the ICC T20 Bowler Rankings saw a dynamic shift, with a number of bowlers making their way into the top ranks. Some of the most prominent names that stood out in the rankings included renowned T20 specialists and emerging bowlers from various cricketing nations.
Below is a table showcasing the top 5 bowlers in the ICC T20 Bowler Rankings at the end of 2016.
| Rank | Bowler | Country | Rating Points | Best Ranking |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| 1 | Imran Tahir | South Africa | 795 | 1st |
| 2 | Sunil Narine | West Indies | 740 | 1st |
| 3 | Mohammad Nabi | Afghanistan | 724 | 3rd |
| 4 | Rashid Khan | Afghanistan | 711 | 4th |
| 5 | Mitchell Santner | New Zealand | 692 | 5th |
Top Performers in ICC T20 Bowler Rankings of 2016
1. Imran Tahir (South Africa)
Imran Tahir, the South African leg-spinner, was the highest-ranked T20 bowler in 2016. He was known for his aggressive spin bowling and his ability to pick up wickets in the middle overs, which made him a key player for South Africa in T20 internationals. Tahir’s impressive record in the 2016 calendar year saw him finishing at the top of the ICC T20 Bowler Rankings.
Tahir’s unique ability to create pressure through his flight and sharp turn helped him become a match-winner in several games. His performances in key series such as the 2016 T20 World Cup were instrumental in keeping him at the top of the rankings.
Key Stats in 2016:
- Matches Played: 9
- Wickets Taken: 15
- Average: 19.80
- Economy Rate: 6.35
2. Sunil Narine (West Indies)
Sunil Narine, the mystery spinner from the West Indies, was one of the most successful T20 bowlers in 2016. Known for his unorthodox action and ability to bowl variations, Narine was crucial for the West Indies’ success in limited-overs cricket. His bowling was especially effective in the 2016 ICC T20 World Cup, where the West Indies clinched the title, and Narine played a key role in restricting opposition batting lineups.
Narine’s ability to bowl in the powerplay and in the middle overs allowed him to consistently pick up wickets while maintaining a low economy rate. His presence in the T20 rankings remained strong due to his consistent performances throughout the year.
Key Stats in 2016:
- Matches Played: 10
- Wickets Taken: 12
- Average: 23.91
- Economy Rate: 6.15
3. Mohammad Nabi (Afghanistan)
Mohammad Nabi, an all-rounder from Afghanistan, made a significant mark in the ICC T20 Bowler Rankings of 2016. His consistency in both batting and bowling helped Afghanistan perform well on the international stage. Nabi’s ability to control the game with his off-spin bowling, especially in the middle overs, made him one of the top bowlers of the year.
Nabi played a pivotal role in Afghanistan’s rise in international cricket, and his performance in the 2016 T20 series and World Cup qualifiers helped him secure the third position in the ICC T20 Bowler Rankings.
Key Stats in 2016:
- Matches Played: 11
- Wickets Taken: 16
- Average: 18.25
- Economy Rate: 6.72
4. Rashid Khan (Afghanistan)
Rashid Khan, one of the most exciting young talents in world cricket, was another standout performer in the ICC T20 Bowler Rankings of 2016. Known for his leg-spin and aggressive wicket-taking ability, Rashid became a key figure for Afghanistan in T20 internationals. His performances in various T20 leagues, such as the Big Bash League (BBL), also showcased his potential.
Rashid’s performances in the 2016 T20 World Cup were vital to Afghanistan’s competitive standing in the tournament. His sharp turn and flight made him a difficult bowler to face, and he quickly rose through the ICC rankings.
Key Stats in 2016:
- Matches Played: 8
- Wickets Taken: 13
- Average: 19.92
- Economy Rate: 6.45
5. Mitchell Santner (New Zealand)
Mitchell Santner, the left-arm orthodox spinner from New Zealand, completed the top 5 in the ICC T20 Bowler Rankings of 2016. Santner’s ability to control the ball and restrict opposition batsmen was crucial to New Zealand’s success in T20 cricket. His intelligent bowling, especially during the middle overs, made him one of the top performers in 2016.
Santner’s consistency in the 2016 calendar year was also evident from his performances in key series and his contribution to New Zealand’s success in T20 competitions around the world.
Key Stats in 2016:
- Matches Played: 7
- Wickets Taken: 10
- Average: 25.00
- Economy Rate: 6.50
Other Notable Bowlers in the ICC T20 Bowler Rankings of 2016
In addition to the top five bowlers, several other players made significant contributions to their teams and held strong positions in the rankings. These players included:
| Rank | Bowler | Country | Rating Points |
|---|---|---|---|
| 6 | Dale Steyn | South Africa | 685 |
| 7 | Jasprit Bumrah | India | 678 |
| 8 | Mohammad Shami | India | 672 |
| 9 | Kagiso Rabada | South Africa | 661 |
| 10 | Shakib Al Hasan | Bangladesh | 650 |
The ICC T20 Bowler Rankings of 2016 were dominated by a mix of experienced bowlers and emerging talents. Imran Tahir, Sunil Narine, Mohammad Nabi, Rashid Khan, and Mitchell Santner were among the best in the shortest format of the game, showcasing exceptional skills, control, and wicket-taking ability. Their performances not only helped their respective teams but also elevated the standard of T20 bowling globally.
The year 2016 marked a turning point for T20 cricket, with bowlers playing a more prominent role in shaping the outcomes of matches. With emerging talents like Rashid Khan, and established stars like Tahir and Narine, the landscape of T20 bowling was set for an exciting future.
As T20 cricket continues to evolve, the contributions of these bowlers remain critical in driving the success of their teams in international competitions, including the ICC T20 World Cup and various T20 leagues. The rankings in 2016 reflected the growing importance of bowlers in the shortest format, and it is likely that these bowlers, along with others, will continue to dominate the rankings in the years to come.
