NEW DELHI: Afghanistan captain and star spinner Rashid Khan scripted history by becoming the leading wicket-taker in T20 internationals, reaching the milestone during the tri-series match against UAE in Sharjah on Monday.

Rashid's brilliant spell of 3/21 helped Afghanistan register an easy 38-run victory over UAE after restricting them to 150/8 in their pursuit of 189. Rashid now sits atop the list with 165 wickets in 98 matches at a staggering strike rate of 13.57 that highlights his dominance in the shortest format.

The victory marked Afghanistan’s first in the tri-series, after they had suffered a 39-run defeat to Pakistan in the opening game.

Close behind is New Zealand's Tim Southee, who retired from international cricket last year, with 164 wickets in 126 games, proving his worth as one of the most reliable pacers in T20I cricket.

Another Kiwi, leg-spinner Ish Sodhi, isn't far away either. With 150 wickets in 126 matches, Sodhi has been a vital cog in New Zealand's bowling unit, often breaking partnerships in crucial moments.

Bangladesh's talisman Shakib Al Hasan sits just a step below, with 149 wickets in 129 outings. A true all-rounder, Shakib's ability to strike with the ball while contributing with the bat makes him one of the most valuable players in world cricket.

Rounding off the list is left-arm pacer Mustafizur Rahman, known for his deadly cutters, who has scalped 142 wickets in 113 matches, consistently troubling batters with his deceptive pace and sharp variations.