The Indian Premier League (IPL) has often been a launchpad for cricketing talents, showcasing players who might not have otherwise received international recognition. However, the transition from IPL stardom to international cricket success isn’t always smooth.
Here are three players who shone brightly in the IPL but faded away when it came to international cricket:
1. Umran Malik:
Umran Malik burst onto the scene with his raw pace, clocking speeds over 150 km/h, making him one of the fastest bowlers in IPL history. His performances in the IPL, especially in 2022, where he was the cynosure of all eyes with his thunderbolts, promised a bright future. However, his international career hasn’t taken off as expected. Despite his pace, Malik struggled with consistency in line and length, crucial aspects for success in international cricket. His bowling, while intimidating in the IPL’s shorter format, often became predictable and expensive on the larger international stage. The lack of variety in his bowling and the pressure of international cricket might have contributed to his fading presence.
2. Venkatesh Iyer:
Venkatesh Iyer’s rise in the IPL, particularly with Kolkata Knight Riders, was meteoric. His ability to hit big and bowl useful medium pace made him a valuable asset. His international debut was marked by a notable performance, but sustaining that form proved challenging. Iyer’s case highlights the difference between IPL’s high-octane cricket and the more strategic, patience-demanding international games. His performances were often inconsistent, with the pressure of international cricket perhaps affecting his natural game. The IPL’s format, which rewards aggressive play, might not fully prepare players for the tactical depth required in international cricket, where adaptability and consistency are key.
3. Shadab Jakati:
Shadab Jakati might not be as well-remembered as the others, but his IPL stint with Chennai Super Kings, especially in 2010, was notable. He played a crucial role in CSK’s first IPL title win, bowling under pressure. However, his international career was virtually non-existent. Jakati’s story might be more about the era he played in, where competition was fierce, and opportunities were scarce for players who didn’t fit into the conventional roles. His bowling, effective in the IPL’s shorter bursts, perhaps lacked the variety or the sheer quality to make an impact in international cricket, where bowlers are often required to bowl longer spells with greater precision.
The tales of Malik, Iyer, and Jakati reflect a broader narrative in cricket where the IPL, with its unique format and conditions, sometimes creates stars who find it challenging to replicate their success internationally. The IPL’s fast-paced environment, while excellent for entertainment and spotting raw talent, might not fully prepare players for the tactical depth and physical endurance required in international cricket. These players’ careers serve as a reminder of the gap between T20 cricket’s glamour and the rigorous demands of Test and even ODI cricket, where consistency, technique, and mental toughness play crucial roles.
IPL can be a springboard for international careers, it’s also a realm where the line between stardom and obscurity can be perilously thin, especially when transitioning to the international arena. The journey from IPL success to international stardom requires not just skill but also adaptability, resilience, and sometimes, a bit of luck in terms of team selection and opportunities.
