IPL 2026 Purple Cap: Can Rashid Khan and Prasidh Krishna Overtake Ravi Bishnoi?
IPL 2026 Purple Cap Race: Rashid Khan and Prasidh Krishna Chasing Ravi Bishnoi!
The battle for the IPL 2026 Purple Cap is getting more exciting every day. While the tournament started with Rajasthan Royals’ Ravi Bishnoi leading the way, two stars from Gujarat Titans (GT) are now moving up fast. After a thrilling match on April 8, 2026, both Prasidh Krishna and Rashid Khan have shown why they are the most dangerous bowlers in T20 cricket.
In a nail-biting finish at the Arun Jaitley Stadium, Gujarat Titans defeated Delhi Capitals by just one run. This victory was possible because of their world-class bowling. As of April 9, 2026, the leaderboard for the highest wicket-taker has become a tactical battlefield.
Current Leader: Ravi Bishnoi Still Holds the Purple Cap
Before we talk about the Titans, we must look at the current leader. Ravi Bishnoi from Rajasthan Royals is still at the top. He has taken 7 wickets in 3 matches. His quick leg-spin and deadly googlies have made it very difficult for batters to score runs in the middle overs.
However, the gap is closing. Two Gujarat Titans bowlers are right behind him, ready to take the top spot in the next few games.
IPL 2026 Purple Cap Leaderboard
| Rank | Player | Team | Wickets | Average | Economy |
| 1 | Ravi Bishnoi | RR | 7 | 11.00 | 9.00 |
| 2 | Prasidh Krishna | GT | 6 | 20.00 | 10.00 |
| 3 | Rashid Khan | GT | 5 | 17.00 | 7.00 |
| 4 | Lungi Ngidi | DC | 5 | 17.00 | 7.00 |
| 5 | Nandre Burger | RR | 5 | 15.00 | 8.00 |
Prasidh Krishna: The Pace Powerhouse
Prasidh Krishna was the Purple Cap winner in IPL 2025 with 25 wickets. In 2026, he looks even more determined. Even though his economy rate is a bit high (10.00), his ability to take wickets at crucial moments is what makes him special.
Performance Against Delhi Capitals
In the last match against Delhi, Prasidh took 2 important wickets. He now has a total of 6 wickets in just two games. His height helps him get extra bounce from the pitch, which surprises the opening batters. In T20 cricket, taking wickets is the best way to stop the runs, and Prasidh is doing exactly that.
Rashid Khan: The Spin Wizard is Back in Form
If Prasidh Krishna provides the pace, Rashid Khan provides the magic. After a slow start in the first two games, Rashid showed why he is called the T20 GOAT (Greatest of All Time) against Delhi Capitals.
The Game-Changing Spell
Rashid finished with amazing figures of 3 wickets for 17 runs in his 4 overs. While other bowlers were giving runs at a rate of 12.00 per over, Rashid’s economy was only 4.25.
Expert analysis suggests that Rashid doesn’t just bowl dot balls; he creates so much pressure that batters are forced to make mistakes. His double-strike in the 10th over, where he dismissed Nitish Rana and Sameer Rizvi, was the turning point of the match. He is now at the 3rd spot in the IPL 2026 Purple Cap race with 5 wickets.
Why This “Titans Surge” Matters for Gujarat?
Having two bowlers in the top three of the IPL 2026 wicket-takers list is great news for Gujarat Titans. It gives them a huge tactical advantage:
Early and Middle Over Control: Prasidh takes wickets early in the innings, and Rashid dominates the middle overs.
Psychological Pressure: Opposing teams feel pressured when they have to face two Purple Cap contenders. They often take risks against other bowlers and lose more wickets.
Defensive Strength: Even if the batters score 200+ runs, Gujarat has the confidence to defend it because of their strike bowlers.
The Road Ahead: Battle with Lucknow Super Giants
The next big test for Gujarat Titans is on April 12, 2026, against Lucknow Super Giants (LSG). They will have to bowl to dangerous players like KL Rahul and Nicholas Pooran.
If Prasidh Krishna continues to take wickets, he could become the first bowler in IPL history to win back-to-back Purple Caps. On the other hand, Rashid Khan, who has 163 IPL wickets, is looking for his very first Purple Cap trophy.
What Should Fantasy Cricket Players Do?
If you are playing Dream11 or other fantasy apps, here are some tips:
Must-Have Players: Ravi Bishnoi and Rashid Khan are “must-haves” because of their low economy and wicket-taking ability.
Captaincy Choice: Rashid Khan is a great choice for Captain or Vice-Captain because he also contributes with the bat if needed.
The X-Factor: Keep an eye on Prasidh Krishna. He might give away some runs, but his 2-3 wickets can give you huge fantasy points.
Everything You Need to Know (FAQ)
Q1: Who has the Purple Cap in IPL 2026 right now?
Ans: Currently, Ravi Bishnoi (Rajasthan Royals) holds the Purple Cap with 7 wickets.
Q2: How many wickets has Rashid Khan taken in IPL 2026?
Ans: Rashid Khan has taken 5 wickets in 3 matches so far.
Q3: Can a player win the Purple Cap twice in a row?
Ans: Yes, it is possible. Prasidh Krishna won it in 2025 and is currently in 2nd place in 2026.
Q4: When is the next Gujarat Titans match?
Ans: Gujarat Titans will play against Lucknow Super Giants on April 12, 2026.
Q5: Who are the top 3 contenders for the IPL 2026 Purple Cap?
Ans: Ravi Bishnoi, Prasidh Krishna, and Rashid Khan are currently the top three contenders.
Conclusion: A Statement from the Champions
The competition between Bishnoi, Krishna, and Khan is going to be the highlight of the next few weeks. Who is your pick for the winner? Will Rashid Khan finally get the Cap, or will Prasidh repeat his 2025 success?
For more IPL 2026 news, player biographies, and match predictions, keep visiting The Cricket Show!
