IPL 2026: 5 Legendary Bowlers Who Never Won the Purple Cap
As the excitement builds for the upcoming Indian Premier League season starting March 28, IPL 2026 once again brings focus to individual brilliance and records. Among the most prestigious individual awards in the tournament is the Purple Cap , given to the highest wicket-taker in a season.
However, what stands out is a surprising trend. Some of the finest bowlers in IPL history have never managed to win this award. Despite years of dominance and match-winning performances, these players are still chasing their first Purple Cap.
Here’s a closer look at five world-class bowlers who have delivered consistently in the IPL but have never topped the wicket charts in a single season.
Known for his deadly yorkers and sharp variations, Bumrah came closest to winning the Purple Cap in 2020 when he picked up 27 wickets. However, he was surpassed by Kagiso Rabada, who finished with 30 wickets that season.
Many experts believe Bumrah’s consistency works against him in this context. Batters often choose to play him cautiously, which reduces his chances of picking up large wicket hauls in a single season.
Despite his dominance, Narine has never won the Purple Cap. One key reason is his incredible economy rate, which is under 7.00. Batters rarely take risks against him, often targeting other bowlers instead.
While he builds pressure and creates opportunities for his teammates, Narine himself has never crossed the 25-wicket mark in a single IPL season.
However, what stands out is a surprising trend. Some of the finest bowlers in IPL history have never managed to win this award. Despite years of dominance and match-winning performances, these players are still chasing their first Purple Cap.
Here’s a closer look at five world-class bowlers who have delivered consistently in the IPL but have never topped the wicket charts in a single season.
Jasprit Bumrah (Mumbai Indians)
It remains one of the biggest statistical surprises in IPL history. Jasprit Bumrah, widely regarded as one of the best all-format bowlers in world cricket, has been a key figure in Mumbai Indians' success over the years.Known for his deadly yorkers and sharp variations, Bumrah came closest to winning the Purple Cap in 2020 when he picked up 27 wickets. However, he was surpassed by Kagiso Rabada, who finished with 30 wickets that season.
Many experts believe Bumrah’s consistency works against him in this context. Batters often choose to play him cautiously, which reduces his chances of picking up large wicket hauls in a single season.
Sunil Narine (Kolkata Knight Riders)
Sunil Narine has been one of the most impactful bowlers in IPL history since his debut in 2012. The Kolkata Knight Riders star is a two-time IPL MVP and is known for his mystery spin and exceptional control.Despite his dominance, Narine has never won the Purple Cap. One key reason is his incredible economy rate, which is under 7.00. Batters rarely take risks against him, often targeting other bowlers instead.
While he builds pressure and creates opportunities for his teammates, Narine himself has never crossed the 25-wicket mark in a single IPL season.
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