Irfan Pathan’s IPL story is told best through the rhythm of his left-arm swing. Across nine seasons from 2008 to 2017, the all-rounder turned 2043 deliveries into 80 wickets at a strike-rate of 25.54, keeping batters guessing with an economy of 7.78. Four times he tilted matches with three-wicket bursts, never more devastating than when the new ball nipped away under lights. Yet Pathan the bowler had a batting heartbeat. Promoted up the order, he smashed 1139 runs from 946 balls, striking at 120 and clearing the ropes 37 times while threading 87 fours. His lone fifty—an electric 60—came at 186.66 and remains a reminder that he could flip a chase in a flash. From Punjab Kings in the inaugural year to the debutant Gujarat Titans in 2017, Pathan wore six different jerseys, but the left-arm angle and fearless swing stayed constant. Eighty wickets, 1139 runs: the numbers frame a rare IPL double—strike bowler who could also open the batting and win you a game either side of the innings.

Ashish Nehra IPL career: 106 wickets in 88 innings, 14 three-wicket bursts, best 4 for 10, economy 7.85, strike-rate 18. Overs nine seasons from 2008 to 2017, the left-arm quick turned powerplay destroyer for Mumbai Indians, Delhi Capitals, Pune Warriors, Chennai Super Kings and Sunrisers Hyderabad. In 2015-16 he spearheaded CSK and SRH attacks, returning 24 wickets in 17 games. His 1908 balls cost only 2495 runs, a testament to discipline on Indian decks. With the bat Nehra was never the headline, yet 41 runs at 66 strike-rate and three fours plus one towering six show he could swing if needed. Highest score 22 off 14, 17 innings, no fifty but plenty of sting in the tail.

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