The Indian Premier League (IPL), a high-octane T20 cricket tournament, is known for its explosive batting and high-scoring matches. However, amidst the flurry of boundaries and sixes, bowlers who excel at delivering dot balls play a crucial role in controlling the game’s momentum. Dot balls build pressure on batters and often lead to wickets or force errors in this fast-paced format. Let’s explore the top players with the most dot balls in IPL history, highlighting their skill, consistency, and impact on the tournament from 2008 to 2025.
Top 5 bowlers who bowled the most dot-balls in the IPL history
5. Piyush Chawla (1337 dot balls)
Veteran leg-spinner Piyush Chawla holds the fifth spot for the most dot balls in IPL history, with 1,358 dot deliveries across 192 innings. One of the league’s most prolific wicket-takers, Chawla has claimed 192 wickets and has represented several franchises, including the Mumbai Indians (MI) and Chennai Super Kings (CSK). His economy rate of 7.96 reflects the difficulty of bowling in a batter-friendly format, yet his ability to consistently deliver dot balls through disciplined line and length is impressive. His record includes both a four-wicket and a five-wicket haul, highlighting his knack for breaking partnerships. Chawla’s high dot ball count underlines his effectiveness as a middle-overs enforcer who builds pressure and forces batsmen into defensive play.
4. Jasprit Bumrah (1353 dot balls)
Jasprit Bumrah, the pace spearhead of the MI, ranks fourth with 1353 dot balls in 141 innings, a remarkable achievement considering his relatively fewer matches compared to others. Bumrah has taken 178 wickets at an impressive economy rate of 7.26, thanks to his unorthodox action, pinpoint yorkers, and relentless accuracy. His ability to bowl dot balls, especially in high-pressure death overs, is unmatched. One of his standout performances includes a stunning 5/10 against Kolkata Knight Riders (KKR) in 2021. Bumrah’s dot ball tally, boosted by a dominant 2024 season where he led Mumbai’s bowling attack, reflects his game changing impact. His consistency in delivering scoreless deliveries under pressure has cemented his status as one of the greatest bowlers in IPL history.
3. Ravichandran Ashwin (1617 dot balls)
Ravichandran Ashwin, India’s off-spin maestro, holds third place with 1,617 dot balls in 216 innings. Known for his tactical brilliance and wide range of variations, including the carrom ball, Ashwin has made his mark with teams like CSK, Rajasthan Royals (RR), and Delhi Capitals (DC). With 185 wickets and an economy rate of 7.19, his total of 1617 dot balls has continued to rise as he consistently outsmarts batters. His return to Chennai in 2025 is set to further enhance his legacy. Ashwin’s dot balls, often delivered during the middle overs, reflect his ability to control matches through intelligence and skill.
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2. Sunil Narine (1686 dot balls)
KKR’s Sunil Narine ranks second with 1,686 dot balls in 186 innings. The Trinidadian spinner, known for his mysterious action featuring knuckleballs and off-spin, has troubled batters for over a decade. With an economy rate of 6.77, one of the best in the IPL with 190 wickets, Narine consistently excels in the middle overs by cutting off scoring opportunities with tight, disciplined bowling. His subtle changes in pace and clever variations lead to scoreless deliveries that shift the momentum of a match. Narine’s impressive dot ball tally highlights his status as a T20 legend who thrives under pressure.
1. Bhuvneshwar Kumar (1762 dot balls)
Topping the list is Bhuvneshwar Kumar, India’s swing king, with 1,762 dot balls across 186 innings. Having played primarily for Sunrisers Hyderabad (SRH) and now representing Royal Challengers Bengaluru (RCB), Bhuvneshwar is known for his pinpoint accuracy and ability to swing the ball both ways. These skills have made him a specialist in both the powerplay and death overs. With 193 wickets and an economy rate of 7.64, he has consistently demonstrated control and effectiveness. His dot balls, often delivered through clever variations, regularly disrupt batter’s rhythm, cementing his place as the IPL’s all-time leader in dot balls.
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