The Indian Premier League (IPL) has seen many bowlers leave a lasting impact with their wicket-taking abilities. This blog post explores the top 10 wicket-takers in IPL history, highlighting their careers, achievements, and contributions to their teams. These bowlers have been pivotal in high-pressure T20 matches, and their legacies continue to inspire cricket fans and players alike.

Top 10 Highest Wicket Takers in IPL History

Below is a detailed look at each bowler, including their total wickets, teams played for, and notable performances. The rankings reflect data as of April 2025, based on reliable cricket statistics sources.

1. Yuzvendra Chahal

• Total Wickets: 205
• Matches Played: 162
• Teams: Mumbai Indians, Royal Challengers Bangalore, Rajasthan Royals, Punjab Kings
• Bowling Stats: Bowled 593.5 overs, economy rate of 7.87, strike rate approximately 17.28 balls per wicket
• Notable Achievements: Chahal is the first bowler to reach 200 wickets in IPL history, a milestone achieved in 2024. He earned the Purple Cap multiple times, including in 2022 with 27 wickets for Rajasthan Royals. His best figures are 5/40, and he has six four-wicket hauls. In the 2019 IPL season, he took 23 wickets in 14 matches, aiding Royal Challengers Bangalore's playoff push.

Chahal's deceptive leg-spin has made him one of IPL's most successful bowlers. He has been part of India's T20 World Cup-winning squad in 2024, though he didn't play any matches. As of IPL 2025, he plays for Punjab Kings, acquired for INR 18 crore, and remains a top contender to extend his lead.

2. Piyush Chawla

• Total Wickets: 192
• Matches Played: 192 (as per Times of India, though myKhel.com suggests 185, indicating possible update discrepancies)
• Teams: Kings XI Punjab, Kolkata Knight Riders, Chennai Super Kings, Mumbai Indians
• Bowling Stats: Bowled 641.4 overs, strike rate approximately 20.04 balls per wicket
• Notable Achievements: Chawla was part of Kolkata Knight Riders' 2014 IPL-winning team, scoring the winning runs in the final. In 2023, he was Mumbai Indians' leading wicket-taker, proving his longevity. His experience and tight bowling, especially in middle overs, have been crucial.

Chawla's career highlights his adaptability, playing for multiple franchises and maintaining relevance. As of IPL 2025, he continues with Mumbai Indians, showcasing his veteran presence.

3. Dwayne Bravo

• Total Wickets: 183
• Matches Played: 161
• Teams: Chennai Super Kings, Mumbai Indians, Gujarat Lions
• Bowling Stats: Estimated 644 overs, strike rate approximately 21.12 balls per wicket
• Notable Achievements: Bravo is renowned for death bowling, contributing to Chennai Super Kings' titles in 2010 and 2011. His best figures are 4/22 against Punjab in 2016. He also captained CSK in Dhoni's absence, adding leadership to his all-round skills.

Bravo retired from playing in IPL after 2024, now serving as mentor for Kolkata Knight Riders in 2025. His Caribbean flair and celebrations have made him a fan favorite.

4. Ravichandran Ashwin

• Total Wickets: 183
• Matches Played: 215
• Teams: Chennai Super Kings, Delhi Capitals, Rajasthan Royals, Rising Pune Supergiant, Punjab Kings
• Bowling Stats: To be determined, but known for tight lines and variations
• Notable Achievements: Ashwin's strategic bowling includes taking crucial wickets in playoffs. In 2023, he helped Rajasthan Royals reach the final, contributing with both bat and ball. His highest IPL score is 49*, showcasing his all-round ability.

Ashwin's off-spin has been vital for multiple teams, and he continues to play in IPL 2025, adding to his legacy.

5. Bhuvneshwar Kumar

• Total Wickets: 183
• Matches Played: 178
• Teams: Sunrisers Hyderabad, Royal Challengers Bangalore, Pune Warriors India
• Bowling Stats: To be determined, known for swing bowling
• Notable Achievements: Bhuvneshwar's best figures are 5/19 against Mumbai Indians in 2017, earning Man of the Match. He was key in Sunrisers Hyderabad's 2016 IPL win, excelling in powerplay overs.

Bhuvneshwar remains a reliable bowler, playing for Sunrisers Hyderabad in IPL 2025, with his swing troubling batsmen consistently.

6. Sunil Narine

• Total Wickets: 182
• Matches Played: 180
• Teams: Kolkata Knight Riders
• Bowling Stats: To be determined, known for mystery spin
• Notable Achievements: Narine won the Purple Cap in 2012 with 24 wickets. In 2024, he scored a century off 49 balls against Rajasthan Royals, becoming the second after Chris Gayle to do so in IPL. His off-spin has puzzled batsmen for years.

Narine continues with Kolkata Knight Riders in IPL 2025, balancing bowling and explosive batting at the top.

7. Amit Mishra

• Total Wickets: 174
• Matches Played: 162
• Teams: Delhi Capitals, Deccan Chargers, Sunrisers Hyderabad, Lucknow Super Giants
• Bowling Stats: To be determined, known for googly and leg-breaks
• Notable Achievements: Mishra holds the record for two IPL hat-tricks, against Mumbai Indians in 2013 and Kolkata Knight Riders in 2019. He took 27 wickets in 2013 for Sunrisers Hyderabad, a standout season.

Mishra's experience makes him a valuable asset, and he plays for Lucknow Super Giants in IPL 2025.

8. Lasith Malinga

• Total Wickets: 170
• Matches Played: 122
• Teams: Mumbai Indians
• Bowling Stats: To be determined, known for yorkers
• Notable Achievements: Malinga's best figures are 5/13 against Rajasthan Royals in 2014, including three consecutive maidens. He helped Mumbai Indians win multiple titles, retiring from international cricket in 2020.

Malinga is no longer playing, but his legacy as a death bowler remains strong.

9. Jasprit Bumrah

• Total Wickets: 165
• Matches Played: 133
• Teams: Mumbai Indians
• Bowling Stats: Economy rate around 6 in 2020, won Purple Cap with 27 wickets
• Notable Achievements: Bumrah's unique action and yorkers have been crucial for Mumbai Indians' success. In 2020, he took 27 wickets, earning the Purple Cap.

Bumrah continues with Mumbai Indians in IPL 2025, maintaining his reputation as a top fast bowler.

10. Ravindra Jadeja

• Total Wickets: 161
• Matches Played: 243
• Teams: Chennai Super Kings, Rajasthan Royals, Kochi Tuskers Kerala, Gujarat Lions
• Bowling Stats: To be determined, known for left-arm spin
• Notable Achievements: Jadeja's all-round contributions include key wickets, batting, and fielding. In 2023, he helped Chennai Super Kings win their fifth title, showcasing his versatility.

Jadeja remains with Chennai Super Kings in IPL 2025, a vital part of their squad.

Conclusion

These bowlers have not only dominated the IPL but have also inspired a new generation of cricketers with their skills and dedication. Their legacies will continue to be celebrated as they have set benchmarks that future bowlers will strive to achieve. As IPL 2025 progresses, new talents may challenge these records, but the impact of Chahal, Chawla, Bravo, and others will remain etched in cricket history.