The excitement of IPL 2025 has truly taken off since the tournament began on March 22. With six teams already battling it out, some have hit their stride, while others continue to search for form and consistency. As the league stage progresses, the pressure will intensify, and teams failing to find momentum risk falling behind in the race for playoff spots.
The contest for the prized Purple Cap, which is given to the tournament’s top wicket-taker, is one of the numerous plotlines emerging this season that people are still watching very carefully. With every game, bowlers across franchises are putting in standout performances to make a mark in this highly competitive race.
Let’s take a look at the current top 5 contenders vying for the Purple Cap as of now:
1. M Prasidh Krishna (Gujarat Titans)
With an outstanding 25 wickets in 15 matches, Prasidh Krishna is at the top of the pack. His best figures of 4 for 41 highlight his ability to break partnerships and deliver under pressure. With an average of 19.52 and a strike rate of 14.16, he’s been a consistent wicket-taker, even if his economy rate of 8.27 has seen a few expensive spells.
2. Noor Ahmad (Chennai Super Kings)
With 24 wickets from 14 matches, Noor Ahmad, the spin wonder for CSK, has drawn attention. His standout performance of 4 for 18 shows his potential to turn matches single-handedly. With a terrific average of 17.00 and an economy of 8.16, he’s been particularly effective in the middle overs, choking runs and striking regularly.
3. Trent Boult (Mumbai Indians)
The experienced Trent Boult continues to deliver for MI, having picked up 22 wickets in 16 matches so far. Known for his new-ball exploits, Boult’s best figures of 4 for 26 reflect his knack for early breakthroughs. Though his economy of 8.96 is on the higher side, his ability to pick wickets at key moments keeps him in strong contention.
4. Josh Hazlewood (Royal Challengers Bangalore)
Hazlewood has already taken 21 wickets in just 11 matches, and his 15.80 average is the highest of the top five. His sharp spells and control have made him RCB’s go-to pacer. With a strike rate of just 11.42, he’s picking wickets nearly every two overs—an exceptional feat.
5. R Sai Kishore (Gujarat Titans)
Rounding off the list is Sai Kishore, who has taken 19 wickets in 15 matches. Although he hasn’t yet picked a four-wicket haul, his best of 3 for 30 and a solid strike rate of 13.42 underline his value as a reliable spinner. Although his economy rate of 9.24 indicates that he has been somewhat pricey, his ability to take wickets is still vital.
As the IPL 2025 season progresses, the race for the Purple Cap is heating up. With every match presenting new challenges, these bowlers will look to continue their fine form and push for the top spot. Whether it’s raw pace, swing, or spin wizardry, the battle for the Purple Cap is proving to be just as thrilling as the fight for the title itself.
