IPL Best Bowling Average: Top 5 Best Bowling Averages in IPL History (Updated 2026)

The Indian Premier League (IPL) has provided many exciting matches over the years, and it’s no surprise that some of the best bowlers in the world have made their mark in the competition. This article will outline the top 5 best bowling averages in IPL history, with a focus on who has been able to perform consistently over time.

 Lungi Ngidi holds the record for the best bowling average in IPL history, with an impressive 18.24. In just 16 IPL matches, he has taken 29 wickets while conceding only 529 runs.

What Is Bowling Average in IPL?

Bowling average is calculated as:

Total Runs Conceded ÷ Total Wickets Taken

Lower average = greater impact.

It reflects how many runs a bowler concedes per wicket taken — a key indicator of efficiency.

Top 5 Best Bowling Averages in IPL History

1. Lungi Ngidi – 17.92

Lungi Ngidi holds the best bowling average in IPL history among qualified bowlers.

Despite playing across Chennai Super Kings, Delhi Capitals, and Royal Challengers Bengaluru, Ngidi has consistently picked up wickets in clusters. Even after a few expensive spells in IPL 2025 with RCB, his ability to strike at crucial moments keeps his average at 18.24.

He remains the benchmark for efficiency in the modern IPL era.

Best bowling figures in IPL history

2. Lasith Malinga – The Gold Standard (19.80)

Lasith Malinga’s record deserves context.

He took 170 wickets in 122 matches while maintaining a sub-20 average. In a league dominated by power-hitters, Malinga delivered yorkers under pressure and controlled death overs better than anyone.

Many short-career bowlers may post better early averages, but sustaining 19.80 across 170 wickets is elite.

3. Sai Kishore – (20.34)

Sai Kishore has quietly emerged as one of the most efficient spinners in IPL 2024–2026.

Representing Gujarat Titans, he has maintained tight control in middle overs while picking up crucial wickets. His ability to bowl stump-to-stump has helped him maintain an impressive 20.34 average in a high-scoring era.

Imran Tahir – (20.77)

mran Tahir’s IPL journey spanned Delhi Daredevils, Rising Pune Supergiant, and Chennai Super Kings.

His aggressive leg-spin, variations in pace, and celebratory sprints made him iconic. More importantly, he maintained a 20.77 average over 82 wickets — a rare balance of aggression and control.

Josh Hazlewood – (20.98)

Josh Hazlewood has established himself as one of the most reliable new-ball bowlers in IPL history.

Playing for Chennai Super Kings and Royal Challengers Bengaluru, he thrives in the powerplay phase. His upright seam position and disciplined lengths allow him to remove top-order batters early.

With 57 wickets at 20.98, Hazlewood sits firmly inside the modern elite group.

List of players with best bowling average in IPL:

layer	Wickets	Average

Lungi Ngidi

29

18.24

Lasith Malinga

170

19.80

Sai Kishore

32

20.34

Imran Tahir

82

20.77

Josh Hazlewood

57

20.98

Adam Zampa

30+

21.03

Matheesha Pathirana

47

21.62

Kagiso Rabada

100+

22+

Rashid Khan

140+

22+

Jasprit Bumrah

150+

23+

Lungi Ngidi currently holds the best bowling average in IPL history (minimum 25 innings).

However, when discussing longevity and sustained dominance, Lasith Malinga’s record remains one of the most impressive achievements in league history.