As we gear up for yet another exciting season of the Indian Premier League, cricket enthusiasts around the world are eagerly waiting to see their favorite teams in action. One of the most coveted awards in the IPL is the Purple Cap, awarded to the highest wicket-taker of the tournament. While there are many talented bowlers in the league, only a few manage to stand out and claim the prestigious Purple Cap.
In this blog, we’ll be discussing the top three contenders who have the potential to win the Purple Cap in IPL 2023. These players have consistently performed well in the past and are expected to shine in the upcoming season as well. So, if you’re a cricket fan who’s curious to know which bowlers to watch out for in IPL 2023, this blog is for you! Let’s dive in and explore the top contenders for the Purple Cap.
Number 1. Jofra Archer
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Jofra Archer is a highly regarded fast bowler who has played in various T20 leagues, including the IPL. He has a great track record in the IPL, having taken 35 wickets at an average of 21.40 and an economy rate of 7.13 in two seasons. Despite his team finishing last in the 2020 edition, he was named the MVP of the tournament.
Archer’s versatility as a bowler is one of his strengths. He can bowl at any stage of the innings and has a variety of deliveries that can trouble any batsman. He is also able to generate extra bounce with his height and pace and can swing the ball both ways.
The fast bowler has a wealth of experience from playing T20 cricket around the world, as well as playing international cricket for England and winning the World Cup in 2019. Archer has a calm temperament and a competitive spirit that helps him handle pressure situations.
After being out of action for 18 months due to injuries, Archer made a successful return to competitive cricket in January 2023, taking 3-27 for MI Cape Town in the South Africa T20 cricket league. He is highly motivated to prove himself on the big stage once again and impress his national selectors ahead of the T20 World Cup later in the year.
Overall, Archer’s record, versatility, experience, and motivation make him a top contender for the Purple Cap in IPL 2023.
Number 2. Umran Malik
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Umran Malik, a promising fast bowler in India, has the potential to win the Purple Cap in IPL 2023. With a fantastic IPL debut season in 2022, he took 22 wickets with an average of 19.00 and a strike rate of 13.411, including a record-breaking performance of 5/24 against Rajasthan Royals.
His extreme speed has made him one of the fastest bowlers in the world, clocking above 140 kmph and even touching 157 kmph in IPL 2022. Despite being only 23 years old, he has shown immense talent and potential with his ability to swing the ball both ways and bowl yorkers, bouncers, and slower balls with accuracy and control.
Mentored by some of the best coaches and players, including Tom Moody, VVS Laxman, and Muttiah Muralitharan, Malik has shown his confidence and temperament to bowl under pressure and against top batsmen. Having overcome many hardships and challenges, including coming from a remote village in Jammu & Kashmir with scarce cricket facilities, Malik is hungry for success and eager to prove himself as one of the best fast bowlers in the world while winning trophies for his team.
Number 3. Sam Curran
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Sam Curran, a versatile and talented all-rounder from England, showcases his skills as a member of the Punjab Kings (PBKS) in IPL. With his proficiency in batting, bowling, and fielding, Curran contributes significantly to his team’s success. Here are some reasons why he could emerge as the Purple Cap winner in IPL 2023:
Curran’s track record in IPL is impressive, having taken 23 wickets in 23 matches at an average of 26.91 and an economy rate of 8.841. In IPL 2020, he was the second-highest wicket-taker for PBKS, with 13 wickets, and secured nine wickets in IPL 2021. Additionally, Curran has also demonstrated his batting prowess, including a match-winning unbeaten knock of 95 against Delhi Capitals (DC) in IPL 2020.
As a left-arm seamer, Curran can expertly swing the new ball, trouble the top-order batsmen, and execute yorkers, slower balls, and variations during death overs. He adapts to various pitches and conditions, capitalizes on any available movement or bounce, and thrives under pressure, taking crucial wickets for his team.
With his extensive experience playing T20 cricket at various levels, including representing England in 36 T20Is, Curran has taken 40 wickets at an average of 25.353. He played a crucial role in England’s T20I squad, which reached the final of the ICC T20 World Cup 2022, and has played for Surrey and Sydney Sixers in domestic T20 tournaments. Curran’s intelligence and skilful approach enable him to handle different situations and opponents, learn from his mistakes, and continually improve his game.
Curran’s passion, competitiveness, and fearlessness allow him to challenge himself and the opposition, inspiring his teammates with his cheerful and positive attitude. He strives to win matches for his team and achieve personal milestones.
