Their records serve as a reminder that the IPL is a platform not just for established stars, but also for hidden talents waiting to be discovered
The Indian Premier League (IPL), a glittering spectacle of cricket, is a platform not only for established stars but also for raw talent to take centre stage. While the likes of Virat Kohli and Jasprit Bumrah grab headlines, there are hidden gems who have quietly etched their names in the record books. This article delves into the achievements of lesser-known Indian players who hold some remarkable IPL records.
Stepping aside from his left-arm bowling prowess, Iqbal Abdulla boasts the highest career batting average for any Indian player in the IPL (minimum 10 innings).
Credit: @PlanetKKR
Abdullah playing for RCB
This unassuming Mumbai spinner averages a staggering 44.00 with the bat, leaving even the legendary MS Dhoni trailing behind at 42.20. Interestingly, Abdulla's claim to fame in the 2011 season wasn't his batting but his bowling, where he bagged 16 wickets with an impressive economy rate. However, his ability to contribute valuable runs lower down the order has secured him a unique record.
Credit: @Pradhyoth1
Akhil has also played for RCB
For pure, unadulterated hitting, look no further than Balachandra Akhil. This Karnataka all-rounder holds the record for the highest strike rate (minimum 25 runs) by an Indian in an IPL innings. During the inaugural season in 2008, Akhil stepped up to the plate for RCB, needing just 7 deliveries to blast an unbeaten 27 against the Deccan Chargers, with a strike rate of a mind-boggling 385.71. His knock, laced with three sixes and two fours, helped RCB chase down the target with ease.
Credit: @Cricketracker
Vijay celebrating his ton
While Murali Vijay might be known for his solidity in Test cricket, he also holds the record for the most sixes in an IPL innings by an Indian. Playing for the Chennai Super Kings in 2010, Vijay unleashed a six-hit spree against the Rajasthan Royals, clobbering a staggering 11 sixes in his knock of 127. This brutal display of power-hitting propelled CSK to a mammoth total and a comfortable victory.
Credit: @mufaddalvoh
Gopal in MI colours
Shreyas Gopal, a name synonymous with cunning leg spin, boasts the best career bowling average for any Indian bowler in the IPL (minimum 250 deliveries). His exceptional control and guile have resulted in an average of 19.39, making him the only Indian to feature in the IPL's top 10 bowlers with the best averages. While he awaits his international breakthrough, Gopal has consistently impressed in the IPL, picking up wickets at a rapid pace for the Rajasthan Royals and now for Mumbai.
If strike rate is your metric for bowling brilliance, look no further than Ashish Reddy. This Hyderabad all-rounder holds the record for the best career bowling strike rate for any Indian bowler in the IPL (minimum 250 deliveries).
Clocking in at a phenomenal 14.5, Reddy's strike rate is second only to the fiery Kagiso Rabada. While he hasn't donned the national colours yet, Reddy's ability to pick up wickets consistently for the Deccan Chargers and Sunrisers Hyderabad is a testament to his bowling prowess.
These are just a few examples of the many lesser-known Indian players who have carved their niche in the IPL. Their records stand as a testament to their talent, determination, and ability to perform on the biggest stage.
