Lakshmipathy Balaji, the Tamil-Nadu tearaway who turned Chennai’s Chepauk roar into a stadium-wide chant, was one of the IPL’s original pace sensations. Across 73 bowling innings from 2008 to 2014, Balaji struck 76 times, translating to a wicket every 19.89 balls and keeping batters guessing at an economy of 8.05 runs per over. His highlight reel peaks with a five-for—the only one of his IPL career—coming alongside six separate three-wicket bursts that tilted matches for Chennai Super Kings, Kolkata Knight Riders and Punjab Kings. Balaji’s 1512 legal deliveries leaked 2028 runs yet never let the asking rate drift too far, a testament to clever change-ups and fearless yorkers. While his batting was mostly an afterthought—36 runs in 13 knocks with a best of 15—his true value lay in the speed and smarts that delivered 76 priceless breakthroughs. Seven seasons, three franchises and one unforgettable spellbook: that is the Balaji legacy in the IPL.

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.