Bowlers with the most wickets in IPL history have often been the true game-changers, shifting momentum more dramatically than even the biggest sixes.” Since its launch in 2008, the IPL has redefined T20 cricket—bringing together thrilling finishes, packed stadiums, and the finest talent from around the world.
While batters often grab the headlines with explosive innings, it’s the bowlers—especially those who can consistently take wickets—who truly determine outcomes. These bowlers break crucial partnerships, restrict scoring during key phases, and rise in clutch moments. Over the years, a select few have mastered this art so well that they now top the all-time wicket charts.
As of the end of the IPL 2025 season, here’s a closer look at the Top 5 Bowlers with the Most Wickets in IPL History, highlighting their careers, defining traits, and standout stats.
1. Yuzvendra Chahal – 221 Wickets
Arguably the most skillful leg-spinner in IPL history, Yuzvendra Chahal combines guile, flight, and fearless bowling to outwit the best. Whether playing for RCB or later RR, he’s been a game-changer in the middle overs and a go-to option under pressure.
Chahal’s IPL Career Stats
| Stat Category | Value |
|---|---|
| Matches Played | 174 |
| Wickets Taken | 221 |
| Best Bowling Figures | 5/40 |
| Bowling Average | 22.76 |
| Economy Rate | 7.96 |
| Strike Rate | 17.1 |
| 4W/5W Hauls | 8 / 1 |
| Teams Played For | PBKS, RCB, RR, MI |
2. Bhuvneshwar Kumar – 198 Wickets
nown as the swing king of Indian cricket, Bhuvneshwar Kumar has been a cornerstone of the Sunrisers Hyderabad bowling attack. A two-time Purple Cap winner, his deadly new-ball spells and pinpoint accuracy at the death have firmly established him among the top Bowlers with the Most Wickets in IPL.
Bhuvneshwar’s IPL Career Stats
| Stat Category | Value |
|---|---|
| Matches Played | 190 |
| Wickets Taken | 198 |
| Best Bowling Figures | 5/19 |
| Bowling Average | 21.32 |
| Economy Rate | 7.69 |
| Strike Rate | 21.3 |
| 4W/5W Hauls | 2 / 2 |
| Teams Played For | RCB, PWI, SRH |
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3. Sunil Narine – 192 Wickets
Mysterious, effective, and remarkably economical, Sunil Narine has long been the backbone of KKR’s bowling attack. Renowned for his unreadable off-spin, he has occasionally contributed with the bat, but his enduring legacy is Bowlers with the Most Wickets in IPL.
Narine’s IPL Career Stats
| Stat Category | Value |
|---|---|
| Matches Played | 189 |
| Wickets Taken | 192 |
| Best Bowling Figures | 5/19 |
| Bowling Average | 25.63 |
| Economy Rate | 6.79 |
| Strike Rate | 22.6 |
| 4W/5W Hauls | 7 / 1 |
| Teams Played For | KKR |
4. Piyush Chawla – 192 Wickets
A consistent performer across multiple franchises, Piyush Chawla often flew under the radar but quietly built one of the Bowlers with the Most Wickets in IPL history. His wrist-spin was especially effective in the middle overs.
Chawla’s IPL Career Stats
| Stat Category | Value |
|---|---|
| Matches Played | 192 |
| Wickets Taken | 192 |
| Best Bowling Figures | 4/17 |
| Bowling Average | 26.66 |
| Economy Rate | 7.91 |
| Strike Rate | 20.2 |
| 4W/5W Hauls | 2 / 0 |
| Teams Played For | KXIP, KKR, CSK, MI |
5. Ravichandran Ashwin – 187 Wickets
A master strategist, Ravichandran Ashwin has used intelligence, adaptability, and control to remain a consistent performer across teams. From Chennai to Rajasthan, he’s played crucial roles in high-pressure moments and is admired for his game awareness.
Ashwin’s IPL Career Stats
| Stat Category | Value |
|---|---|
| Matches Played | 221 |
| Wickets Taken | 187 |
| Best Bowling Figures | 4/34 |
| Bowling Average | 30.22 |
| Economy Rate | 7.20 |
| Strike Rate | 25.18 |
| 4W/5W Hauls | 1 / 0 |
| Teams Played For | CSK, RPS, PBKS, DC, RR |
Final Thoughts
Bowlers with the Most Wickets in IPL have not only posted remarkable numbers but also shaped the outcome of matches and entire seasons with their game-changing spells.” Their names are firmly etched in IPL history, having mastered a format that overwhelmingly favors batters. As the league continues to grow, the battle for the top spot on the wicket-takers chart is set to become even more intense in the seasons ahead.
