Most Wickets in Powerplay Overs in IPL

The powerplay overs, defined as the first 6 overs of an innings in T20 cricket, are considered the most crucial phase in an IPL match. Taking early wickets creates pressure and stems the flow of runs, often putting teams in winning positions. Let’s explore the bowlers with the most powerplay wickets in IPL history.

Most Wickets in Powerplay Overs in IPL

The tone for the rest of the innings is often set during the first six overs. Sides with batting firepower can post big totals by making optimal use of the powerplay. At the same time, losing early wickets unravels the momentum and puts teams on the backfoot.

Over the years, IPL franchises have focused on roping in bowlers with the ability to take wickets in the high-scoring powerplays. Let’s look at the bowlers with the most powerplay swickets in the IPL history.

Most Wickets in Powerplay Overs in IPL

BOWLERS	WICKETS	INNINGS	STRIKE RATE (VS)	ECONOMY	SIXES CONCEDED
Bhuvneshwar Kumar	74	173	100.46	6.32	51
Trent Boult	63	103	113.64	7.05	40
Sandeep Sharma	62	122	113.06	6.98	47
Umesh Yadav	61	131	123.14	7.69	51
Deepak Chahar	60	81	127.31	7.88	48
Ishant Sharma	60	108	115.12	7.30	38
Zaheer Khan	57	99	107.43	6.74	23
Ravichandran Ashwin	53	133	109.55	6.81	49
Mohammed Shami	50	103	118.73	7.50	41
Dhawal Kulkarni	46	86	121.41	7.49	29
Ashish Nehra	45	88	120.51	7.49	32
Praveen Kumar	43	117	104.91	6.68	35
Lasith Malinga	40	117	98.29	6.27	20
Mohit Sharma	38	80	133.25	8.12	32
Mohammed Siraj	37	83	131.38	8.25	53

Check Also : Most Runs Against Rajasthan Royals (RR) in IPL History

#1. Bhuvneshwar Kumar – 74

With 74 powerplay wickets, Bhuvneshwar Kumar holds the record for the most powerplay wickets in IPL history. His strike rate of 100.46 in powerplays is even more impressive because the field restrictions usually help batsmen.

His outstanding strike rate of 100.46 in powerplays shows how effective he is during this important phase, despite the conditions favoring batsmen.

#2. Trent Boult – 63

Trent Boult is number two on the list of players with the most wickets in powerplays in IPL. He has taken 63 wickets in 103 matches.

#3. Sandeep Sharma – 62

On the back of his prowess as one of the best swing bowlers, Sandeep Sharma  has 62 wickets in the first six overs. His methodical approach in T20 cricket has brought success over a prolonged period, showcasing his exceptional skills as a swing bowler.

#4. Umesh Yadav – 61

Delhi Capitals pacer Umesh Yadav is another regular name on the list of top powerplay wicket-takers. His 61 wickets have come at a strike rate of 123.4 balls per wicket.

#5. Deepak Chahar – 60

In the rich history of the Indian Premier League, Deepak Chahar has swiftly emerged as Chennai Super Kings’ powerplay specialist. Though he has only played 81 innings so far, Chahar’s 60 wickets have come at an excellent strike rate of 127.31, making him a notable contributor during the powerplay overs in the history of the tournament.

Read: Most Runs Against KKR in IPL History

Conclusion

Bowlers like Bhuvneshwar Kumar and Deepak Chahar have mastered the art of scalping powerplay wickets. Their exceptional strike rates and economy rates tell the story.