David Willey’s IPL story is written through the ball, not the bat. Across 11 bowling innings for Royal Challengers Bengaluru in 2023, the left-arm seamer claimed six wickets, never once going for more than two in any spell. Operating at an impressive strike-rate of 36 balls per wicket and an economy of just 7.56, Willey kept a lid on scoring even at the death. His 216 deliveries cost only 272 runs, a testament to accuracy on Bengaluru’s batting-friendly tracks. While his batting flashes were brief—53 runs from 62 balls with seven boundaries—RCB valued him chiefly for the control and breakthroughs he delivered with the new ball and in the slog overs. Three seasons, two franchises, one clear role: Willey is the swing-and-pace insurance policy every T20 side covets.

Faf du Plessis has become one of the most bankable IPL openers across 13 seasons and four franchises, culminating in his 2025 stint with Delhi Capitals. The South African has stacked up 4,773 runs at a strike rate of 135, carving 439 boundaries and clearing the rope 174 times—numbers that paint the picture of a batsman who keeps the scoreboard in perpetual motion. With 39 half-centuries from 147 innings, he has built consistency into aggression, while his unbeaten 96 remains the tantalising high-water mark just short of a maiden IPL ton. From Chennai Super Kings’ yellow to Royal Challengers Bengaluru’s red and now Delhi Capitals’ blue, du Plessis has turned every jersey into a run-making statement, proving that adaptability and class travel well in T20 cricket.

Note: This overview is partially generated using AI and is based on statistical data. Please verify with official sources for complete accuracy.