Though the IPL is often dominated by explosive batting performances, some bowlers have left an unforgettable mark with their exceptional spells. Here’s a look at the top 10 best bowling figures in IPL history.
Top 10 Best Bowling Figures in IPL History : From Lasith Malinga to Jasprit Bumrah
Top 10 Best Bowling Figures in IPL History
| Bowler | Figures | Match | Overs | Maidens | Economy | Venue | Year |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Alzarri Joseph | 6/12 | MI vs SRH | 3.4 | 1 | 3.27 | Hyderabad | 2019 |
| Sohail Tanvir | 6/14 | RR vs CSK | 4 | 0 | 3.5 | Jaipur | 2008 |
| Adam Zampa | 6/19 | RPS vs SRH | 4 | 0 | 4.75 | Visakhapatnam | 2016 |
| Anil Kumble | 5/5 | RCB vs RR | 3.1 | 1 | 1.57 | Cape Town | 2009 |
| Akash Madhwal | 5/5 | MI vs LSG | 3.3 | 0 | 1.42 | Chennai | 2023 |
| Jasprit Bumrah | 5/10 | MI vs KKR | 4 | 1 | 2.5 | DY Patil | 2022 |
| Mohit Sharma | 5/10 | GT vs MI | 2.2 | 0 | 4.28 | Ahmedabad | 2023 |
| Ishant Sharma | 5/12 | DC vs Kochi | 3 | 0 | 4.00 | Kochi | 2011 |
| Lasith Malinga | 5/13 | MI vs DD | 3.4 | 1 | 3.54 | Delhi | 2011 |
| Ankit Rajpoot | 5/14 | KXIP vs SRH | 4 | 0 | 3.5 | Hyderabad | 2018 |
In-Depth Look at the Best Bowling Spells
1. Alzarri Joseph (6/12) – A Dream Debut (2019)
Alzarri Joseph made a stunning IPL debut for Mumbai Indians in 2019, dismantling the Sunrisers Hyderabad batting lineup. His 6/12 spell remains the best bowling performance in IPL history.
2. Sohail Tanvir (6/14) – Early IPL Brilliance (2008)
In the inaugural IPL season, Sohail Tanvir’s unorthodox left-arm pace proved too much for Chennai Super Kings as he picked 6 wickets for just 14 runs, setting an early benchmark.
3. Adam Zampa (6/19) – Spin Magic (2016)
Leg-spinner Adam Zampa remains the only spinner to take six wickets in an IPL match. His 6/19 against SRH in 2016 showcased his exceptional skill and control.
4. Anil Kumble (5/5) – The Best Economy Spell (2009)
Legendary leg-spinner Anil Kumble bowled a magical spell of 5/5 in just 3.1 overs, restricting Rajasthan Royals in 2009.
5. Akash Madhwal (5/5) – IPL 2023’s Breakout Star
Mumbai Indians’ Akash Madhwal stunned LSG with his 5-wicket haul for just 5 runs, one of the most economical spells in IPL history.
6. Jasprit Bumrah (5/10) – The Death-Over King (2022)
Bumrah’s lethal pace and precision saw him dismantle KKR with a 5/10 spell, proving why he is among the world’s best.
7. Mohit Sharma (5/10) – IPL 2023 Playoff Hero
Mohit Sharma played a crucial role in Gujarat Titans’ playoff match against MI, taking 5 wickets while conceding just 10 runs.
8. Ishant Sharma (5/12) – Dominance in 2011
A rare feat for Ishant Sharma, his 5/12 against Kochi Tuskers Kerala was one of the best fast-bowling performances in IPL.
9. Lasith Malinga (5/13) – The Yorker King (2011)
Malinga’s trademark yorkers crushed Delhi Daredevils (now DC) in 2011, as he bagged 5 wickets for 13 runs.
10. Ankit Rajpoot (5/14) – Surprise Spell (2018)
Ankit Rajpoot delivered a 5/14 spell for Kings XI Punjab, showcasing his ability to dominate a strong SRH batting lineup.
While IPL is known for high-scoring encounters, bowlers have proven their worth time and again with match-winning spells. These top 10 performances will forever be etched in IPL history, reminding fans that bowlers can be game-changers too!
