IPL 2017: Best bowlers of each franchise

Gujrat Lions: James Faulkner

Though he started playing IPL in 2011, not many people will know that James Faulkner is the man who has taken the most five-wicket hauls in the history of the IPL. He has managed to achieve that feat twice and has done it once for Australia. He is second only to Malinga – who has 4 against his name, in the all-time list. Faulkner has been amazing in the IPL, especially when he turned out for Rajasthan Royal. Gujarat Lions will be hoping that Faulkner would replicate the performances he gave for his previous franchise this season.

The Tasmanian all-rounder will have to lead the Gujarat attack this season. Faulkner can be handy in the death overs, as he has a lot of variations up his sleeves, none better than the back of the hand slower ball. He is a versatile bowler who has the ability to make the new ball talk as well. All in all, Faulkner will play a significant role with the ball for Gujarat Lions this season.

Rising Pune Supergiants: Imran Tahir

Imran Tahir’s IPL inclusion is a classic case of ‘good things come to the ones who wait’. The Proteas star bowler surprisingly did not attract any bids despite being the No. 1 T20 bowler in the world. He also picked up a 5-wicket haul three days preceding to the auction day. As they say, all’s well that ends well. Tahir find himself in the thick of things at Pune Supergiants, as he joined the squad as a late replacement for the injured Mitchell Marsh. With Ashwin pulling out last-minute before the IPL, Pune’s spin reserves would have looked very thin if it wasn’t for Tahir.

Tahir is a crafty bowler who uses all his experience and variations to good effect. The Supergiants will look towards him for inspiration. With 173 wickets at an economy of under 7 an over, Tahir has been a skillful operator in this format for the various teams he has played in around the world.