Best Bowling Figures in IPL History: Who had Best Bowling Spell from 2008 to IPL 2025, Featuring Jasprit Bumrah & More?

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Best Bowling Figures in IPL History: The IPL has long been a paradise for batters, but exceptional bowling performances have often turned matches on their heads. While economical spells and consistent wicket-taking are valuable, a single dominant bowling display can dismantle even the strongest line-ups.

Over the years, several bowlers have achieved remarkable figures, with a few even taking six wickets in an innings – an extraordinary feat in T20 cricket.

Alzarri Joseph holds the record for the best bowling figures in IPL history, with his sensational 6/12 for Mumbai Indians against Sunrisers Hyderabad in 2019. The list also features legendary names such as Sohail Tanvir, Anil Kumble, and Lasith Malinga, alongside modern stars like Jasprit Bumrah and Akash Madhwal.

These performances have often come in high-pressure situations, showcasing the impact a quality bowler can have in the league. Let’s have a look at the top 15 best bowling figures in IPL history.

Top 15 Best Bowling Figures in IPL History

Best of the Best Bowling Figures in IPL History

Alzarri Joseph stunned the IPL with his record-breaking spell of 6/12 for Mumbai Indians against Sunrisers Hyderabad in 2019. On his debut, the West Indian pacer ran through SRH’s batting line-up, showcasing raw pace and movement. His spell remains the best in the tournament’s history, highlighting the unpredictability of T20 cricket.

Sohail Tanvir’s 6/14 for Rajasthan Royals in 2008 was the first major bowling landmark in the IPL. His unorthodox left-arm action troubled Chennai Super Kings as he dismantled their batting unit, setting the stage for Rajasthan’s title-winning campaign. His record stood for 11 years before Joseph broke it.

Adam Zampa’s 6/19 for Rising Pune Supergiants in 2016 was another exceptional effort, proving that spinners can dominate as well. The Australian leg-spinner bamboozled Sunrisers Hyderabad, turning the ball sharply and deceiving batters with his variations.

Apart from these six-wicket hauls, several bowlers have taken five-fors with astonishing economy rates. Anil Kumble’s 5/5 for RCB in 2009 remains one of the most economical five-wicket hauls in IPL history, while Akash Madhwal’s 5/5 in 2023 was a crucial playoff performance that helped Mumbai Indians advance.

These bowling displays have played a crucial role in defining the IPL’s competitive nature. While power-hitting often grabs the headlines, these spells prove that bowlers, too, can dictate the game’s outcome in the shortest format.