Anrich Nortje has cemented his place in South African cricketing history, surpassing the legendary Dale Stein to become the Proteas’ leading wicket-taker in the ICC Men’s T20 World Cup.

Anrich Nortje: A new record-holder for South Africa

Nortje achieved this feat during Match 45 of the T20 World Cup 2024 Super 8 Group 2 stage against England at the Daren Sammy National Cricket Stadium in St Lucia on Friday evening. In his 16th T20 WC appearance, when Nortje picked up a wicket he left behind Steyn’s record of 30 wickets.

Steyn, while no longer an active player, leaves behind a commendable legacy. He accumulated 30 wickets in his 23 T20 World Cup matches, averaging 19.30 with an economy rate of 6.96. He also managed a solitary four-wicket haul during his time on the world stage.

Meanwhile, Nortje boasts a remarkable average of 10.96 across his T20 World Cup appearances, conceding a mere 5.58 runs per over. He also claimed three four-wicket hauls in the tournament – most by any South African bowler.

The ongoing edition of the T20 World Cup has been a particularly fruitful one for Nortje. In his five matches played so far, he has already reached double digits in terms of wickets captured, with an impressive haul of 11 scalps. His bowling average of 12.90 and an exceptional economy rate below 5.91 further highlight his dominance with the ball.

Nortje defends 13 runs against England

Nortje played a pivotal role in securing South Africa’s victory over England. Bowling a match-winning final over, he conceded only six runs and crucially dismissed the dangerous Harry Brook with the very first delivery. This wicket swung the momentum decisively in South Africa’s favour, ultimately sealing their win by a narrow margin of 7 runs.

With four points, South Africa are in a strong position to reach the semi-finals, but they still need to beat the West Indies in their last Super 8 game to finish among the final four.

Most wickets for South Africa in Men’s T20 World Cup

31 – Anrich Nortje (16 matches)
30 – Dale Steyn (23 matches)
24 – Morne Morkel (17 matches)
24 – Kagiso Rabada (19 matches)