Indian Premier League Logo
The Indian Premier League (IPL) has witnessed some of the finest bowlers in T20 cricket, but only a few have managed to maintain an exceptional bowling average. While economy rates and total wickets often steal the spotlight, a bowler’s average is a true indicator of how consistently they pick up wickets while conceding fewer runs. As IPL 2025 approaches, let’s take a look at the best bowling average in IPL history, a record currently held by Matheesha Pathirana.
Matheesha Pathirana – Best Bowling Average in IPL History (17.41)
Sri Lankan pace sensation Matheesha Pathirana has established himself as one of the most lethal bowlers in IPL history. With his unique slinging action and deadly yorkers, he has picked up 34 wickets in just 20 matches, maintaining an incredible bowling average of 17.41.
Playing for Chennai Super Kings (CSK), Pathirana’s ability to bowl toe-crushing yorkers at the death has made him a nightmare for opposition batters. His standout performances in IPL 2023 and 2024 have cemented his reputation as one of the best death-over bowlers in the tournament.
Lungi Ngidi – Second-Best Bowling Average (17.92)
Another fast bowler who has made a strong impact in the IPL is Lungi Ngidi. The South African speedster has taken 25 wickets in just 14 matches, maintaining an excellent bowling average of 17.92.
Ngidi, known for his pace and bounce, was a key player for Chennai Super Kings (CSK), playing a crucial role in their bowling attack whenever he got the opportunity. Despite playing fewer games, his ability to pick wickets consistently puts him among the best in IPL history.
Other Notable Bowling Averages in IPL History
- Doug Bollinger – 18.72 (IPL Career: 2010-2012)
- Dwayne Bravo – 23.82 (IPL Career: 2008-2022)
- Lasith Malinga – 19.79 (IPL Career: 2009-2019)
Why is a Low Bowling Average Important?
A low bowling average means that a bowler concedes fewer runs for every wicket they take, highlighting their ability to dismiss batters efficiently. In a tournament like the IPL, where batters dominate, maintaining an average below 20 is an extraordinary feat.
Can This Record Be Broken in IPL 2025?
With bowlers like Jofra Archer, Jasprit Bumrah, and Rashid Khan continuing to perform exceptionally, there is a chance that someone might challenge Pathirana’s record. However, given his young age and impressive consistency, he could extend his dominance further in IPL 2025.
As the tournament begins, all eyes will be on whether Matheesha Pathirana can maintain his best bowling average or if a new star will emerge to break this record.
