The Indian Premier League (IPL) has evolved into a batsman-dominated tournament, where 200+ totals are no longer a rarity but a regular occurrence. In such a high-scoring environment, bowlers who can strike early and put pressure on the opposition are invaluable. One of the most effective ways to disrupt a batting side’s momentum is by taking wickets in the very first over of the innings.
Over the years, certain bowlers have mastered the skill of delivering breakthroughs with the new ball. Their ability to swing, seam, or deceive batters early on has made them crucial assets for their teams. Here, we examine the top five bowlers who have taken the most wickets during an IPL innings’ first over.
5. Deepak Chahar – 13 Wickets
With the new ball, swing specialist Deepak Chahar shines. Since his IPL debut in 2016, he has played for teams like Rising Pune Supergiant and Chennai Super Kings, establishing himself as a reliable powerplay bowler.
Chahar’s ability to move the ball both ways has helped him claim 13 wickets in the first over of an innings. His best performances include match-winning spells where he dismantled top-order batters early, setting the tone for his team’s success.
4. Sandeep Sharma – 13 Wickets
Sandeep Sharma’s IPL debut in 2013 was unforgettable, as he took 3/21 for Punjab Kings, one of the highest debut numbers for an Indian bowler. Known for his disciplined line and length, Sandeep has been a consistent performer in the powerplay.
Though he has adapted his game to bowl in the death overs as well, his early success with the new ball has earned him 13 first-over wickets in the IPL. His clever variations and ability to swing the ball make him a tough bowler to face upfront.
3. Praveen Kumar – 15 Wickets
A classical swing bowler, Praveen Kumar was a nightmare for batters in the initial overs during his IPL career (2008–2017). Representing five different franchises, he picked up 90 wickets in total, with 15 of those coming in the first over.
Praveen’s mastery over seam and swing allowed him to trouble even the best openers. In the early years of the IPL, he was a valued bowler due to his economical and wicket-taking periods in the powerplay.
2. Bhuvneshwar Kumar – 27 Wickets
The Indian record for the most first-over wickets in IPL history is 27, which is held by Bhuvneshwar Kumar, the country’s top swing bowler. With 183 wickets overall, he is also the highest wicket-taker among Indian pacers in the league.
Bhuvneshwar’s ability to swing the ball both ways, combined with his pinpoint accuracy, makes him a constant threat in the powerplay. Whether playing for Sunrisers Hyderabad or earlier franchises, his knack for early breakthroughs has been a key factor in his success.
1. Trent Boult – 31 Wickets
Topping the list is New Zealand’s left-arm speedster, Trent Boult, with a staggering 31 wickets in the first over—the most by any bowler in IPL history. Known for his lethal inswingers and ability to strike early, Boult has been a standout performer for multiple franchises, including Mumbai Indians, Rajasthan Royals, and Delhi Capitals.
Boult’s aggressive approach with the new ball and his skill in exploiting early swing have made him one of the most feared bowlers in the powerplay. His record speaks for itself, proving his dominance in the opening overs.
Conclusion
In a format where batters dominate, these bowlers have carved a niche for themselves by delivering crucial early blows. Their ability to take wickets in the first over not only puts pressure on the opposition but also sets the stage for their team’s success. Trent Boult is at the top of the list, but Bhuvneshwar Kumar is still the most successful Indian on this prestigious list, demonstrating the value of swing and accuracy in T20 cricket.
As the IPL continues to evolve, the role of powerplay specialists will remain vital, and new names may soon join this prestigious list of first-over wicket-takers.
very informative