Bowling in an IPL playoff match is one of the toughest tasks in T20 cricket. With the world watching and pressure peaking, it takes nerves of steel, flawless execution, and unshakable focus to rise above the occasion. Over the years, several bowlers in IPL playoff history have produced magical spells that turned the tide for their teams.
Here’s a closer look at the top 5 bowlers in IPL playoff matches with the most outstanding bowling figures:
1. Akash Madhwal – 5/5 vs Lucknow Super Giants (IPL 2023 Eliminator)
Akash Madhwal holds the record for the best-ever bowling figures by any bowler in IPL playoff history. In the 2023 Eliminator at Chepauk, the Mumbai Indians pacer produced an unbelievable spell of 5 wickets for just 5 runs in 3.3 overs.
His lethal yorkers, smart variations, and ice-cool composure helped dismantle LSG’s batting lineup. With an economy rate of just 1.42, this performance not only helped MI advance but also carved Madhwal’s name into the IPL record books.
Bowling Stats:
| Team | Overs | Runs | Wickets | Economy |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Mumbai Indians | 3.3 | 5 | 5 | 1.42 |
2. Mohit Sharma – 5/10 vs Mumbai Indians (IPL 2023 Qualifier 2)
Mohit Sharma delivered a fiery spell for Gujarat Titans in the 2023 Qualifier 2, grabbing 5 wickets for 10 runs in just 2.2 overs. His clever use of slower deliveries and variations stunned the Mumbai Indians’ middle and lower order.
Mohit’s ability to finish the innings with surgical precision under high pressure earned him one of the most iconic spells ever by bowlers in IPL playoff matches.
Bowling Stats:
| Team | Overs | Runs | Wickets | Economy |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Gujarat Titans | 2.2 | 10 | 5 | 4.28 |
3. Doug Bollinger – 4/13 vs Deccan Chargers (IPL 2010 Semi-Final)
In the 2010 semi-final, Doug Bollinger turned up big for Chennai Super Kings with 4 wickets for 13 runs in 4 overs. His spell included a maiden and completely derailed the Deccan Chargers’ innings at DY Patil Stadium.
Bollinger’s left-arm pace and disciplined lines ensured CSK’s spot in the final, and his performance still stands as one of the most clinical by bowlers in IPL playoff history.
Bowling Stats:
| Team | Overs | Runs | Wickets | Economy |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Chennai Super Kings | 4.0 | 13 | 4 | 3.25 |
4. Dhawal Kulkarni – 4/14 vs Royal Challengers Bangalore (IPL 2016 Qualifier 1)
Dhawal Kulkarni was the hero for Gujarat Lions in the 2016 Qualifier 1. On a batting-friendly Chinnaswamy pitch, he rocked RCB’s top order with 4 wickets for 14 runs in 4 overs, including a maiden.
RCB were left at 29/5 after the powerplay, thanks to Kulkarni’s sharp swing and accuracy. Though Gujarat lost the game, Kulkarni’s spell remains a classic among the best from bowlers in IPL playoff showdowns.
Bowling Stats:
| Team | Overs | Runs | Wickets | Economy |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Gujarat Lions | 4.0 | 14 | 4 | 3.50 |
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5. Jasprit Bumrah – 4/14 vs Delhi Capitals (IPL 2020 Qualifier)
Jasprit Bumrah is no stranger to high-stakes pressure, and he proved it again in the 2020 Qualifier against Delhi Capitals. With 4 wickets for 14 runs in 4 overs, including a maiden, he decimated DC’s top order with his lethal yorkers and sharp bouncers.
Bumrah’s economy of 3.50 in a must-win game elevated his status as one of the finest bowlers in IPL playoff history.
Bowling Stats:
| Team | Overs | Runs | Wickets | Economy |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Mumbai Indians | 4.0 | 14 | 4 | 3.50 |
