The T20 format, often hailed as a paradise for batters allowing them to play with freedom, has seen bowlers carving their niche and strategising to outwit batters. In the Indian Premier League (IPL), the most successful bowler of the season is honored with the Purple Cap, a coveted accolade that signifies the highest wicket-taker of the tournament.
Let's tale a look at the updated list of the early contenders for the Purple Cap this season.
1. Mustafizur Rahman (CSK): Chennai Super Kings' left-arm pacer Mustafizur Rahman is currently at the forefront of the Purple Cap race. With 6 wickets from 2 matches and an economy rate of 7.37, he has showcased remarkable skill. His most notable performance was against GT, capturing 4 wickets for 29 runs. He was acquired by CSK in the auction last year for Rs 2 crore.
2. Harpreet Brar (PBKS): Occupying the second spot is Punjab Kings' left-arm orthodox bowler Harpreet Brar with 3 wickets from two matches and an impressive economy of just 3.85. His standout performance was against RCB, where he took two wickets for 13 runs.
3. Jasprit Bumrah (MI): Mumbai Indians' leading pace bowler Jasprit Bumrah is in third place. He has claimed 3 wickets over two matches at an economy of 6.25. Bumrah missed the 2023 IPL due to a back injury.
4. Kagiso Rabada (PBKS): South African fast bowler Kagiso Rabada is fourth, with 3 wickets from two matches and an economy rate of 7.37. He played a crucial role in DC's runner-up finish in 2020, leading the wicket-takers and securing the Purple Cap with 30 wickets.
5. T Natarajan (SRH): Sunrisers Hyderabad's T Natarajan, known for his expertise in the death overs, is fifth with 3 wickets from one match.
6. Deepak Chahar (CSK): Chennai Super Kings' Deepak Chahar, a specialist new ball bowler, is sixth with 3 wickets and an economy of 8.12.
7. Harshit Rana (KKR): Kolkata Knight Riders' young pacer Harshit Rana stands seventh, capturing three wickets in his season debut against SRH.
8. Pat Cummins (SRH): Australian fast bowler and captain of Sunrisers Hyderabad, Pat Cummins is eighth with 3 wickets from two matches and an economy of 8.37.
9. Mohit Sharma (GT): Mohit Sharma, who was the second-highest wicket-taker last season with 27 wickets, is ninth. Playing for Gujarat Titans, he has taken 3 wickets with an economy of 8.50 this season.
10. Spencer Johnson (GT): Rounding out the top ten is Gujarat Titans' Australian left-arm pacer Spencer Johnson acquired for Rs 10 crore. He has 3 wickets from two matches at an economy rate of 10.0.
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