With the latest edition of the IPL now over, we cast a look at the best individual bowling performances of the season.
BEST BOWLING
KULDEEP YADAV
4-20, Kolkata Knight Riders v Rajasthan Royals
Kuldeep Yadav turned the game on its head with his spell. Image – BCCI.
It was a big game as both teams were in contention for the playoffs. Rajasthan, put into bat, scored 59 runs in four overs and looked set for a big total. But once Kuldeep Yadav was pressed into the attack in the eighth over, Rajasthan’s hopes were dashed. The left-arm wrist spinner turned the game in Kolkata’s favour by claiming Rajasthan’s top batsmen – Ajinkya Rahane, Jos Buttler, Stuart Binny and Ben Stokes. He claimed a wicket in every over to finish with 4-20.
It was top class spin bowling as he slipped in the googlies with telling effect. Rajasthan were bowled out for 142 and Kolkata chased it down easily in 18 overs. It was Yadav’s best bowling display in the IPL and it came at a crucial time as it helped Kolkata progress in the league. The 23-year-old also emerged as the best Indian spinner in the tournament by claiming 17 wickets, which was also his best haul in the event.
WORTHY MENTIONS
3-23 by Umesh Yadav (Royal Challengers Bangalore) v Kings XI Punjab
Yadav was on fire in his spell against Kings XI Punjab. Image – BCCI.
The fast bowler triple strike triggered Punjab’s capitulation for a paltry 88 as RCB romped home with 10 wickets.
5-14 by Ankit Rajpoot (Kings XI Punjab) v Sunrisers Hyderabad
Rajpoot’s 5-14 were the best figures for the tournament. Image – BCCI.
It was the best haul of the season but the Punjab’s pacer display was not enough to help his side fetch a win.
