Bowling in the IPL isn’t for the faint-hearted. With power-hitters looking to send every ball into orbit, a great bowling spell feels like a work of art—a mix of strategy, skill, and sheer brilliance. Over the years, we’ve witnessed some unforgettable spells that have turned games on their heads.
So, let’s dive into the best IPL bowling spells of all time—those magical moments where bowlers became legends!
1. Alzarri Joseph’s 6/12 – The Dream Debut (2019)
Record-Breaking Brilliance
Imagine walking into the IPL as a debutant and leaving with the best-ever bowling figures in tournament history. That’s exactly what Alzarri Joseph did for Mumbai Indians against Sunrisers Hyderabad in 2019.
- Figures: 6 wickets for 12 runs in just 3.4 overs
- Match Impact: Bowled out SRH for a mere 96 runs
- Why It’s Legendary: Fast, furious, and completely unplayable
His raw pace had SRH batters hopping, and before they knew it, their chase was over in a blink. Not bad for a first-timer, huh?
2. Sohail Tanvir’s 6/14 – The OG Match-Winner (2008)
When Slingy Yorkers Ruled the IPL
Before there was Malinga, there was Sohail Tanvir. The left-arm pacer from Pakistan wreaked havoc in IPL 2008, leading Rajasthan Royals to their maiden title.
- Figures: 6/14 vs. Chennai Super Kings
- Match Impact: CSK folded for just 109, RR won comfortably
- Why It’s Legendary: The first six-wicket haul in IPL history
His unique slingy action made him nearly impossible to pick, and boy, did CSK batters struggle!
3. Adam Zampa’s 6/19 – The Forgotten Gem (2016)
Spin Web Like Never Before
Everyone talks about fast bowlers, but Adam Zampa’s 6/19 for Rising Pune Supergiant in 2016 remains one of the finest spells by a spinner in IPL history.
- Figures: 6/19 in 4 overs
- Match Impact: Though Pune lost the match, Zampa’s magic kept them in the hunt
- Why It’s Legendary: The second-best IPL figures ever, and by a spinner!
Zampa spun a web around SRH’s batting lineup, proving that leg-spinners can be match-winners too.
4. Anil Kumble’s 5/5 – Class is Permanent (2009)
Vintage Jumbo at His Best
When Anil Kumble, a veteran of Indian cricket, came on to bowl against Rajasthan Royals in IPL 2009, no one expected fireworks. But what followed was sheer magic!
- Figures: 5 wickets for just 5 runs
- Match Impact: RR all out for 58, a historic low
- Why It’s Legendary: A bowling masterclass from a 38-year-old legend
Kumble didn’t rely on pace—just sharp turn, smart variations, and unshakable confidence. True class!
5. Lasith Malinga’s 5/13 – The Yorker King Strikes (2011)
Malinga Being Malinga
If T20 cricket had a death-bowling deity, it would be Lasith Malinga. His yorkers were so deadly they should’ve been classified as WMDs (Weapons of Mass Dismissal)!
- Figures: 5/13 vs Delhi Daredevils (now Delhi Capitals)
- Match Impact: Bowled Delhi out for 95, MI won with ease
- Why It’s Legendary: Pure pace, pinpoint accuracy, and toe-crushing yorkers
This spell was a perfect example of why he’s still considered one of the greatest T20 bowlers of all time.
6. Sunil Narine’s 5/19 – The Mystery Man (2012)
Spinning Kolkata to Glory
Sunil Narine’s mystery spin was at its peak in 2012, and his spell against Kings XI Punjab was just ridiculous.
- Figures: 5/19
- Match Impact: Choked Punjab’s chase, leading KKR to a comfortable win
- Why It’s Legendary: He made world-class batters look like club-level amateurs!
When Narine was in form, even the best in the business had no clue which way the ball would turn.
FAQs: Your IPL Bowling Questions Answered
1. Who has the best bowling figures in IPL history?
Alzarri Joseph holds the record with 6/12 in IPL 2019.
2. Who has taken the most wickets in IPL history?
Lasith Malinga led for years, but now Yuzvendra Chahal and Dwayne Bravo are in the mix.
3. Has anyone taken 7 wickets in an IPL match?
Nope! Six wickets is still the highest in an IPL game.
4. Who is the best death bowler in IPL history?
Lasith Malinga and Jasprit Bumrah are widely regarded as the best, thanks to their yorkers.
Final Thoughts: The Art of Bowling in IPL
IPL is often seen as a batsman’s game, but these spells prove that bowlers can be the real game-changers. Whether it’s sheer pace, unplayable spin, or deadly yorkers, these performances remain etched in IPL folklore.
Which bowling spell do you think was the greatest? Drop your thoughts in the comments and let’s celebrate the unsung heroes of the IPL! 🏏🔥