Best Bowling Figures in an IPL Match: A Look at the Top Performances
T20 cricket has always favored the batters, with high scores and explosive hitting becoming the norm. Over the years, as batters have gained more freedom and knowledge of the format, batting records have skyrocketed. However, some bowlers have defied the odds, delivering match-winning performances that turned the tide single-handedly.
The IPL has provided a grand stage for both local and international bowlers to showcase their skills. As a result, the tournament has witnessed nearly three dozen five-wicket hauls, highlighting the brilliance of these bowlers.
In this article, we explore the top five best bowling performances in IPL history.
Top 5 Best Bowling Figures in an IPL Match
5. Akash Madhwal – 5/5 vs LSG (2023)
Representing Mumbai Indians in IPL 2023, young speedster Akash Madhwal delivered a record-breaking performance, registering the best bowling figures by an Indian pacer in IPL history. He surpassed Jasprit Bumrah’s 5/10 by taking a stunning 5/5 in just 3.3 overs against Lucknow Super Giants in the Eliminator in Chennai. His incredible spell dismantled LSG’s batting lineup, restricting them to just 101 runs while chasing 183.
4. Anil Kumble – 5/5 vs RR (2009)
RCB legend and former captain Anil Kumble etched his name in IPL history with a spectacular 5/5 in 3.1 overs against Rajasthan Royals in Cape Town during IPL 2009. His magical spell bowled RR out for just 58 runs while defending a modest total of 133, securing a dominant victory for RCB.
3. Adam Zampa – 6/19 vs SRH (2016)
Playing for the now-defunct Rising Pune Supergiants in IPL 2016, leg-spinner Adam Zampa spun a web around Sunrisers Hyderabad, finishing with phenomenal figures of 6/19 in Vizag. His spell remains the best bowling performance by a spinner in IPL history. Unfortunately, his six-wicket haul went in vain as Pune fell short by four runs in the match.
2. Sohail Tanvir – 6/14 vs CSK (2008)
Rajasthan Royals’ speedster Sohail Tanvir became the first bowler in IPL history to claim a six-wicket haul. His iconic performance came against Chennai Super Kings in IPL 2008, where he tore through CSK’s batting lineup with figures of 6/14 in Jaipur. His brilliance restricted CSK to just 109 runs, paving the way for an eight-wicket win for Rajasthan.
1. Alzarri Joseph – 6/12 vs SRH (2019)
Former Mumbai Indians pacer Alzarri Joseph holds the record for the best bowling figures in IPL history. In IPL 2019, he produced an unforgettable spell of 6/12 against Sunrisers Hyderabad in Hyderabad. Defending a below-par total of 136 runs, Joseph single-handedly ran through SRH’s batting order, bundling them out for just 96 runs and securing a crucial win for MI.
(Stats updated till March 19, 2025.)