Purple Cap in IPL 2025: Updated list of players with most wickets after Punjab Kings vs Mumbai Indians
With the league stage reaching its climax, every match is crucial.
Alpha Desk
May 27, 2025 / 00:23 IST
DisclaimerThis is an AI-assisted live blog with updates from multiple sourcesDisclaimer
Updated list of players with most wickets after Punjab Kings vs Mumbai Indians
Shreyas Iyer's Punjab Kings (PBKS) capped off their league stage campaign with a dominant 7-wicket victory over Hardik Pandya's Mumbai Indians (MI) at the Sawai Mansingh Stadium in Jaipur. PBKS chased down MI's 184/7 with ease, finishing at 187/3 in just 18.3 overs. Arshdeep Singh, though not adding to his wicket tally, played a crucial role in restricting MI's total. But with the league stage nearing its end, the focus now shifts to the coveted Purple Cap, where a thrilling battle is unfolding.
The race for the Purple Cap in IPL 2025 has become a captivating subplot as the league stage draws to a close. With several bowlers putting in impressive performances, the competition is tighter than ever. Let's delve into the top contenders and analyze their chances of claiming the coveted prize.
Noor Ahmad: The Afghan Sensation Leading the Charge
Currently perched atop the leaderboard is Chennai Super Kings' (CSK) spin wizard, Noor Ahmad. The Afghan youngster has been a revelation this season, bamboozling batsmen with his variations and control. In 14 matches, Ahmad has snared 24 wickets at an impressive average of 17.00. His economy rate of 8.16 is commendable, especially considering the attacking role he plays for Ruturaj Gaikwad's CSK. With a strike rate of 12.50, Ahmad has consistently provided breakthroughs for his team. His best figures of 4/18 showcase his ability to single-handedly turn the tide of a match. With 4 three-wicket hauls and 2 four-wicket hauls, Ahmad has been a consistent wicket-taker throughout the tournament.
Prasidh Krishna: The Indian Pace Spearhead Breathing Down His Neck
Hot on Ahmad's heels is Gujarat Titans' (GT) Prasidh Krishna. The Indian speedster has been a key component of Shubman Gill's pace attack, consistently troubling batsmen with his pace and bounce. Krishna has taken 23 wickets in 14 matches, just one shy of Ahmad's tally. His average of 18.91 and economy rate of 7.90 are testament to his effectiveness. With a slightly higher strike rate of 14.34 compared to Ahmad, Krishna has also been instrumental in providing crucial breakthroughs. His best figures of 4/41 and a solitary four-wicket haul, accompanied by 2 three-wicket hauls, highlight his ability to deliver match-winning performances.
The Chasing Pack: Boult, Hazlewood, and Arshdeep
While Ahmad and Krishna lead the way, a formidable chasing pack is ready to pounce on any opportunity. Trent Boult of Mumbai Indians (MI) sits third with 19 wickets in 14 games. The Kiwi veteran's experience and guile make him a constant threat, even though his economy of 8.51 is the highest among the top three. Josh Hazlewood of Royal Challengers Bengaluru (RCB) has been impressive, picking up 18 wickets in just 10 matches. His average of 17.27 and strike rate of 12.27 are the best among the top five, indicating his potency. However, with RCB's league stage campaign concluded, Hazlewood's chances hinge on the performance of others. Arshdeep Singh of Punjab Kings (PBKS) also has 18 wickets in 14 matches. While his economy rate of 8.56 and strike rate of 16.11 are relatively higher, his knack for picking up wickets at crucial junctures makes him a valuable asset.
Head-to-Head: A Statistical Showdown
A closer look at the statistics reveals interesting nuances. Ahmad's superior average and strike rate indicate his ability to pick up wickets more frequently and economically. Krishna's slightly better economy suggests he has been more successful in containing runs. Hazlewood's numbers are impressive, but his limited number of matches could prove to be a disadvantage. Boult's experience and Arshdeep's knack for crucial wickets make them dangerous contenders.
What's Next?
With the league stage reaching its climax, every match is crucial. The upcoming match between Rishabh Pant's Lucknow Super Giants (LSG) and Rajat Patidar's Royal Challengers Bengaluru (RCB) at the Bharat Ratna Shri Atal Bihari Vajpayee Ekana Cricket Stadium in Lucknow on May 27th will be pivotal. While neither team has a bowler in the top 5, strong performances could shake up the leaderboard. As the playoffs approach, the Purple Cap race promises to go down to the wire, with Ahmad, Krishna, Boult, Hazlewood and Arshdeep all vying for the ultimate prize.
