The swing king Bhuvneshwar Kumar is the first and only bowler to win the Purple Cap for two consecutive seasons — 2016 and 2017.
Kumar’s IPL story in 2016 was a tale of consistency and accuracy. Playing for the Sunrisers Hyderabad (SRH), he emerged as a vital cog in their bowling attack, picking up a staggering 23 wickets in just 17 matches. His ability to swing the new ball both ways and exploit the early conditions proved to be a nightmare for batsmen. With an impressive economy rate of 7.42 and a strike rate of 17.2, he choked the flow of runs and created pressure from the get-go. His best bowling figures of 4/29 showcased his ability to pick up wickets in crucial moments.
SRH’s maiden IPL title triumph in 2016 wasn’t solely built on batting brilliance. Kumar’s bowling prowess played a pivotal role in restricting opposition teams and providing breakthroughs at key junctures. His skillful bowling display throughout the season not only earned him the coveted Purple Cap but also established him as a true leader in the SRH bowling line-up.
However, Kumar didn’t rest on his laurels. The 2017 season saw him elevate his game to even greater heights.
10 Years in Orange! 😍
— Bhuvneshwar Kumar (@BhuviOfficial) April 1, 2023
A big thank you to the management, team mates, coaches and support staff with whom I've had the luck to work with over the years! ✨
Finally, the #OrangeArmy - The love, trust & backing I have received, is priceless! 🧡
To many more Sun Rises together ☀️ pic.twitter.com/H6AbqPVNCt
In just 14 matches, Kumar surpassed his previous season’s tally, claiming a phenomenal 26 wickets. His bowling average plummeted to a remarkable 14.19, signifying his exceptional control and wicket-taking ability. The highlight of his season was a career-best spell of 5/19 against Kings XI Punjab, a performance that left the opposition batsmen in awe.
While his strike rate dipped slightly to 12.0 compared to the previous season, it was compensated by an even more economical performance. Kumar’s bowling economy of 7.05 was the second-best in the tournament, highlighting his ability to restrict runs while picking up wickets. This miserly bowling not only put pressure on the opposition but also provided breathing space for his fellow bowlers.
“A decade and how!!”
— Bhuvneshwar Kumar (@BhuviOfficial) December 25, 2022
A dream aspired by a boy many years ago came true on this very special day.
Proud to be here. pic.twitter.com/zOx52RwMIr
Kumar’s back-to-back Purple Cap wins were a testament to his relentless dedication and exceptional bowling skills. He mastered the art of bowling in pressure situations, consistently delivering impactful spells and dismantling batting line-ups. His success played a major role in solidifying SRH’s position as a force to be reckoned with in the IPL.
Bhuvneshwar Kumar’s reign as the Purple Cap king not only marked a personal milestone but also inspired a generation of young Indian fast bowlers.
His ability to swing the ball and control the game with his variations continues to be a source of admiration for aspiring cricketers. While injuries have hampered his consistency in recent years, his IPL heroics remain etched in the memory of every cricket fan, a reminder of the time the “Swing King” ruled the IPL with an unmatched mastery.
Bhuvneshwar Kumar’s story is more than just statistics and accolades. It’s a testament to the power of dedication, skill, and the ability to perform under pressure. He established himself as a true leader and a match-winner, inspiring a generation of bowlers and leaving an indelible mark on the history of the IPL.
