The Indian Premier League is known to have numerous talented cricketers grace the field over the years. One of the key metrics used to assess a bowler's effectiveness is their economy rate (ER) — the number of runs they give away per over.

An economy rate is an important measure for bowlers; it typically measures the average number of runs a bowler concedes in an over. This is particularly true in a fast-paced T20 game, where the objective is to keep the opposition from scoring freely.

A low economy rate shows a bowler's ability to restrict runs, often playing a critical role in helping a team control the game.

Lets take a look at a few bowlers from various IPL seasons who have achieved impressive economy rates till now.

Best Economy Rates by Top Bowlers

1. NB Singh (GL) - 4.0 ER

NB Singh played for Gujarat Lions (GL) in the 2017 IPL season. In his brief stint, Singh demonstrated his ability to keep the runs under control, finishing with an impressive economy rate of 4.0. He bowled two overs, giving away just eight runs and taking one wicket for seven runs, with an average of 15.00 and a strike rate of 15.00. His stellar performance in that season was a show of his aggressive batting, making Singh one of the standout performers with the ball. Though he played only a small role in the tournament, his economy rate was one of the best in the IPL.
 

2. DJ Thornely (MI) - 5.71 ER

DJ Thornely, who played for Mumbai Indians (MI), is another bowler who impressed everyone with his phenomenal bowling performance in the 2008 IPL season.

In the total six matches that he played, Thornely bowled a total of seven overs, conceding 40 runs while claiming three wickets. His economy rate of 5.71 was notable, especially considering that it came in the inaugural IPL season when batting lineups were generally more aggressive. Thornely's best bowling performance was a match-winning 2/7, which helped MI in their campaign that year. 

3. M Manhas (CSK/DC/PWI) - 6.00 ER

M Manhas, who has played for multiple teams in the IPL like Chennai Super Kings (CSK), Delhi Capitals (DC), and Pune Warriors India (PWI), is another bowler known for his high economical rate. Over the course of his IPL career, Manhas played 55 matches, with his economy rate consistently staying at 6.00. His bowling style allowed him to contain runs, even in high-scoring games. 

4. MJ Clarke (PWI) - 6.09 ER

Michael Clarke, one of Australia's finest batsmen, played for Pune Warriors India (PWI) during the 2012 season. Though Clarke is widely regarded for his batting prowess, he occasionally contributed with the ball as well. In the 2012 IPL season, Clarke played six matches and bowled 11 overs. He conceded 67 runs while taking two wickets, resulting in an economy rate of 6.09. This economy rate may not be as exceptional as some others on this list, but it is still very commendable in a tournament like the IPL, where boundaries are frequent, and the competition is intense.

5. A Chandila (RR) - 6.20 ER

Ajit Chandila, who played for Rajasthan Royals (RR), was known for his unique style of bowling. His bowling skills were a combination of spin and deception. His best IPL season was in 2012 and 2013, where he played 12 matches and bowled 39 overs. During this time, he conceded 242 runs while taking 11 wickets, boasting an economy rate of 6.20.

The economy rate in the IPL is a key indicator of a bowler's performance. A bowler's economy rate helps define their contribution to the team's defensive strategy, especially when the team is defending a target.

Bowlers who can restrict the opposition's scoring rate can swing the match in favor of their team, making their performance highly valuable.While many focus on wickets and batting performances in the IPL, bowlers with exceptional economy rates have often been the unsung heroes of the tournament.

As we look back at the IPL's history, the bowlers mentioned above — NB Singh, DJ Thornely, M Manhas, MJ Clarke, and A Chandila — stand out for their remarkable economy rates. These bowlers proved that a low economy rate is not just about containment but also about maintaining pressure, building partnerships, and making key contributions to their teams' success. 

(ER= Economy Rate)

Frequently Asked Questions

Q1) What is a good economy rate in IPL?

A good economy rate is under 7.00. Bowlers with economy rates below 6.00 are considered very effective in limiting the opposition's scoring.

Q2) Why is economy rate important in T20 cricket?
It measures a bowler's ability to limit runs and control the game.

Q3) Who has the best economy rate in IPL history?
Sunil Narine and Lasith Malinga are known for the best economy rates.

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