Dale Steyn Names Top 5 RCB Bowlers, Chahal Leads the Pack
Synopsis
Key Takeaways
New Delhi, April 10 (NationPress) Dale Steyn, the former South African fast bowler, has unveiled his selection of the top five bowlers from the Royal Challengers Bangalore (RCB) in the history of the Indian Premier League (IPL), with leg-spinner Yuzvendra Chahal taking the coveted top spot.
Steyn, celebrated for his astute analysis of the sport, placed former Indian captain Anil Kumble at No. 5, commending the legendary spinner's prowess at the M. Chinnaswamy Stadium, known for its batting-friendly conditions. Kumble captained RCB from 2009 to 2010, participating in 51 matches and securing 51 wickets at an impressive average of 24.58.
“At No. 5, I’ve got Anil Kumble. Just as a spinner, bowling a lot at Chinnaswamy and performing as well as he has, he makes my top five,” Steyn remarked to ESPNcricinfo.
In the fourth position, Steyn recognized Harshal Patel for his remarkable wicket-taking skills and match impact. Patel stands as RCB's second-highest wicket-taker in IPL history, amassing 99 wickets in just 80 matches, including a five-wicket haul and two four-wicket hauls.
“Harshal Patel, his statistics indicate he’s a true wicket-taker. His economy rate is commendable, and his contribution to RCB's victories is substantial,” he added.
The third spot went to Australian left-arm fast bowler Mitchell Starc, with Steyn praising his consistent wicket-taking ability and solid economy. Starc played only 27 matches for RCB, managing to take 34 wickets.
“You can’t overlook this man. Mitchell Starc — an exceptional wicket-taker, with a fantastic economy, and a key player in terms of picking wickets,” he stated.
At the No. 2 position, Josh Hazlewood, another Australian fast bowler, was highlighted for his outstanding strike rate. Hazlewood is actively participating in IPL 2026 with RCB, having taken 45 wickets in just 27 matches.
“Josh Hazlewood is an extraordinary bowler. With a strike rate of 13, it essentially means he’s taking a wicket every two overs. That’s truly impressive,” Steyn noted.
Claiming the top spot is Chahal, RCB’s all-time leading wicket-taker in IPL history, with Steyn emphasizing his reliability and ability to change matches. Chahal has recorded 139 wickets in 113 matches for RCB at an impressive average of 22.03.
“At No. 1, it’s Yuzi Chahal. He strikes every 17 balls, maintains an economy of around 7.6, and has the most wickets — he’s my No.1,” Steyn affirmed.
As a side note, RCB remains undefeated in IPL 2026 and is set to face the Rajasthan Royals at Barsapara Stadium in Guwahati this Friday.