IPL: Decoding batters with highest strike rate in powerplay
Powerplay is an important phase in T20 cricket as batters aim to make maximum utilization of the field restrictions. Owing to the same, dashing top-order batters have been in great demand in the format. Meanwhile, the Indian Premier League (IPL) has been graced by several prominent strikers. Here are the batters with the highest powerplay strike rate in IPL history (Minimum: 500 runs).
Virender Sehwag - 143.85
Former Indian opener Virender Sehwag, who played his last IPL game in 2015, is still in the top five of this list. The dasher is often credited to redefine the opener's role. He was a menace in the powerplay as his IPL strike rate in this phase was 143.85, as per ESPNcricinfo. 1,568 of his IPL runs have come in the first six overs.
Prithvi Shaw - 144.96
Prithvi Shaw of Delhi Capitals is also known for his ability to clear the boundaries in the powerplay overs. His fast hands and wristwork make him a force against fast bowlers. Though consistency has been an issue for him, he can demolish the opposition single-handedly on his day. His powerplay strike rate reads 144.96. Shaw has 1,267 runs in this phase.
Jonny Bairstow - 148.87
England's Jonny Bairstow is next on this list. The dasher's ability to tackle the swinging new ball makes him a difficult customer in the powerplay overs. He backs himself to take on the bowlers in the toughest of circumstances. Bairstow hence has a stunning strike rate of 148.87 in the powerplay overs. 731 of his IPL runs have come in this phase.
Yashasvi Jaiswal - 150.76
Rajasthan Royals batting sensation Yashasvi Jaiswal, who enjoyed a breakthrough IPL 2023, is second on this elite list. The southpaw can cause some serious destruction at the top of the order. His powerplay strike rate of 150.76 in the IPL is the testimony of the same (790 runs). Notably, Jaiswal is also the holder of the fastest IPL fifty (13 balls).
Sunil Narine - 176
Kolkata Knight Riders' Sunil Narine is way ahead of his peers as his IPL strike rate in powerplay reads 176. Narine, who is also among the best spinners in T20 history, is apparently a pinch hitter. He hence holds the license to attack straightaway. Narine has been brilliant in this role as 792 of his IPL runs have come in the powerplay (49 sixes).
