Purple Cap in IPL 2025: Updated list of players with most wickets after Chennai Super Kings vs Sunrisers Hyderabad

Purple Cap in IPL 2025: The Chennai Super Kings faithful at the MA Chidambaram Stadium were left stunned as their team succumbed to yet another defeat. Pat Cummins' Sunrisers Hyderabad chased down a modest 154 with 5 wickets to spare, courtesy of Heinrich Klaasen's fiery knock.While the batsmen battle it out on the pitch, a silent war is raging in the background – the race for the coveted Purple Cap. As we approach the halfway mark of IPL 2025, the competition to be the tournament's leading wicket-taker is intensifying, with a fascinating mix of seasoned campaigners and emerging stars vying for the top spot.

Prasidh Krishna Leads the Charge

Prasidh Krishna has 16 scalps in 8 matches (BCCI Photo)

Currently perched atop the leaderboard is Gujarat Titans' (GT) strike bowler, Prasidh Krishna, with an impressive haul of 16 wickets in 8 matches. The Indian pacer has been a crucial member for Shubman Gill's side, providing crucial breakthroughs at key moments. His bowling average of 14.12 and a decent economy of 7.29 showcase his ability to consistently pick up wickets without leaking too many runs. Krishna's strike rate of 11.62 further emphasizes his wicket-taking prowess. His best figures of 4/41 demonstrate his capability to dismantle batting lineups. With two 3-wicket hauls and a 4-wicket haul to his name, Krishna has consistently delivered impactful performances for GT.

Hazlewood Breathing Down His Neck

Hot on Krishna's heels is RCB's Josh Hazlewood, also with 16 wickets, but having played one more match. Hazlewood's experience and accuracy have been invaluable for RCB, and his statistics reflect his consistent performance. With a bowling average of 17.18 and an economy of 8.37, Hazlewood has been a reliable performer for Rajat Patidar's team. His strike rate of 12.31 is slightly higher than Krishna's, but his three 3-wicket hauls and one 4-wicket haul highlight his ability to consistently contribute to RCB's success. Despite the slightly higher economy, Hazlewood's knack for picking up wickets at crucial junctures makes him a formidable contender for the Purple Cap.

Ahmad and Patel: The Indian and Afghan Spin Twins

Noor Ahmad has 14 wickets in 9 matches (BCCI Photo)

In third place, we have Chennai Super Kings' (CSK) mystery spinner Noor Ahmad, with 14 wickets in 9 matches. The Afghanistani youngster has bamboozled batsmen with his variations and guile. Ahmad's bowling average of 17.78 and an economy of 8.03 are a testament to his effectiveness. His best figures of 4/18 showcase his ability to turn the game on its head. With two 3-wicket hauls and a 4-wicket haul, Ahmad has been a key weapon in MSD's arsenal.

Following closely is Sunrisers Hyderabad's (SRH) veteran Harshal Patel, with 13 wickets in 8 matches. Patel's variations and slower balls have made him a difficult bowler to face, especially in the death overs. His bowling average of 18.76 and an economy of 9.03 reflect his knack for picking up wickets, even if he tends to be slightly expensive. Patel's two 3-wicket hauls and two 4-wicket hauls demonstrate his ability to consistently contribute to SRH's success.

Kuldeep Yadav Lurking

Rounding out the top five is Delhi Capitals' (DC) Kuldeep Yadav, with 12 wickets in 8 matches. The left-arm wrist-spinner has rediscovered his mojo, troubling batsmen with his flight and turn. Yadav's bowling average of 17.33 and an impressive economy of 6.50 make him a valuable asset for Axar Patel's side. His strike rate of 16.00 indicates his ability to pick up wickets at crucial moments. While he has only one 3-wicket haul so far, Yadav's consistency and ability to control the flow of runs make him a strong contender for the Purple Cap.

Krishna vs Hazlewood: A Statistical Showdown

A closer look at the statistics reveals a fascinating comparison between the top two contenders, Prasidh Krishna and Josh Hazlewood. While both have an equal number of wickets, Krishna boasts a superior average and economy, indicating his greater efficiency in picking up wickets. However, Hazlewood's experience and consistency make him a formidable opponent. The battle between these two pace spearheads is set to intensify as the tournament progresses.

What's Next?

The Purple Cap race is far from over, with several other bowlers lurking in the shadows, ready to pounce at the slightest opportunity. With crucial matches coming thick and fast, every wicket will count in this high-stakes battle. As the Kolkata Knight Riders (KKR) gear up to face the Punjab Kings (PBKS) at Eden Gardens on Saturday all eyes will be on the bowlers, eager to see who can make their mark and climb up the leaderboard. Expect the spinners to play a crucial role on the Eden Gardens track, with the likes of Varun Chakaravarthy and Harpreet Brar potentially making a significant impact.

Purple Cap in IPL 2025: Updated list of players with most wickets after Chennai Super Kings vs Sunrisers Hyderabad

IPL 2025: While the batsmen battle it out on the pitch, a silent war is raging in the background – the race for the coveted Purple Cap.