In the high-octane world of the Indian Premier League, the powerplay overs are vital. The first six overs can often determine a team’s momentum, and bowlers have the responsibility of restricting runs early on. However, in the 2025 season, some players struggled during this crucial phase. Here, we look at the top 5 bowlers with the worst economy rates in IPL 2025. These bowlers conceded the most runs per over in the powerplay, becoming liabilities for their respective teams despite their skill sets.

List of 5 Bowlers with the Worst Economy Rates in IPL 2025

5. Harshit Rana – Economy Rate: 10.17

Among the bowlers with the worst economy rates in IPL 2025, Harshit Rana ranks fifth. Representing Kolkata Knight Riders, Rana had a challenging season in terms of powerplay economy. His rate of 10.17 runs per over in the first six overs placed him on this unfortunate list. Even though Rana displayed impressive wicket-taking ability, with 19 wickets in the season, his tendency to leak runs often put his team under pressure early in matches.

Player	Team	ER (Overs 1–6)
Harshit Rana	KKR	10.17

Despite being among the bowlers with the worst economy rates in IPL 2025, Harshit Rana showed moments of brilliance. Still, his high economy rate needs addressing if he aims to become a consistent threat in the powerplay.

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4. Mohammed Shami – Economy Rate: 10.37

Veteran Indian pacer Mohammed Shami finds himself fourth among the bowlers with the worst economy rates in IPL 2025. Playing for Sunrisers Hyderabad, Shami recorded an economy of 10.37 in the first six overs well above his usual standard. While Shami is known for his accuracy and ability to swing the ball, he failed to keep the run rate in check during powerplays this season.

Player	Team	ER (Overs 1–6)
Mohammed Shami	SRH	10.37

Being listed among the bowlers with the worst economy rates in IPL 2025 is surprising for a player of Shami’s caliber. His team might continue to back him due to his vast experience, but there’s no denying the need for better execution during early overs.

3. Avesh Khan – Economy Rate: 11.00

Third on the list of bowlers with the worst economy rates in IPL 2025 is Avesh Khan of Lucknow Super Giants. With an economy rate of 11.00 in the powerplay, Khan’s aggressive style of bowling came at a cost. Though he managed to take 19 wickets, which matches Harshit Rana’s tally, the number of runs he conceded overshadowed his strike rate.

Player	Team	ER (Overs 1–6)
Avesh Khan	LSG	11.00

As one of the bowlers with the worst economy rates in IPL 2025, Khan needs to find a better balance between aggression and control. His role remains vital, but Rajasthan Royals may look at his usage more critically going forward.

2. Shardul Thakur – Economy Rate: 11.06

Shardul Thakur, who once had a reputation for delivering key breakthroughs, now finds himself ranked second among the bowlers with the worst economy rates in IPL 2025. Playing for Lucknow Super Giants in the 2025, Thakur had an economy rate of 11.06 in the first six overs during the previous season. He claimed only 5 wickets in 9 matches with an average of 61.80, contributing to his dip in value.

Player	Team	ER (Overs 1–6)
Shardul Thakur	LSG	11.06

His inclusion among the bowlers with the worst economy rates in IPL 2025 highlights a significant decline in form. Unless Thakur regains his rhythm, his future in top-level T20 cricket remains uncertain.

1. Mitchell Starc – Economy Rate: 11.30

The unwanted top spot among the bowlers with the worst economy rates in IPL 2025 goes to Mitchell Starc. Bought by Delhi Capitals, expectations were sky-high. However, Starc’s performance in the powerplay told a different story. With an economy rate of 11.30, Starc conceded more runs than any other bowler in the early overs.

Player	Team	ER (Overs 1–6)
Mitchell Starc	DC	11.30

Being the most expensive player and yet leading the list of bowlers with the worst economy rates in IPL 2025 raises serious questions. While Starc still has the pace and swing, adapting to Indian pitches and the T20 format remains a challenge for the Australian left-arm pacer.