The Indian Premier League (IPL) has long been a platform for unearthing cricketing talent, often serving as a stepping stone for players aiming for international glory. However, while many have used the IPL as a springboard to successful international careers, others have struggled to replicate their IPL brilliance on the global stage. Here are three players who dazzled in the IPL but couldn’t sustain the same level of success in international cricket:
1. Umran Malik
Umran Malik took the IPL by storm with his blistering pace, frequently touching speeds above 150 km/h, making him one of the fastest bowlers in the league’s history. His 2022 season, in particular, was filled with excitement as he rattled batsmen with raw speed and aggression. However, despite his success in the IPL, Malik has found it challenging to transition that form to international cricket. His lack of consistency in line and length, coupled with limited variations, often made him predictable at the highest level. While his pace is undoubtedly an asset, international cricket demands a higher level of precision and adaptability, areas where Malik has struggled so far.
2. Venkatesh Iyer
Venkatesh Iyer’s breakthrough in the IPL with Kolkata Knight Riders made him an overnight sensation. His ability to strike big with the bat and contribute useful overs with the ball saw him quickly earn an international debut. However, Iyer’s form in international cricket has been patchy. While his aggressive approach worked wonders in the IPL’s fast-paced environment, the more strategic and disciplined nature of international cricket seemed to curtail his natural game. Consistency, a crucial component in international cricket, eluded Iyer, and he found it difficult to adjust to the varying demands of different formats at the top level.
3. Shadab Jakati
Shadab Jakati’s performances for Chennai Super Kings, particularly during their 2010 IPL triumph, made him a household name. His ability to bowl economically under pressure in the shorter format earned him praise. However, Jakati’s success in the IPL didn’t translate into international recognition, as he never managed to break into the Indian national team in a significant way. Despite his IPL success, Jakati lacked the opportunities and perhaps the extra edge needed to make an impact in the international arena, where competition for places, especially for spinners, was incredibly fierce during his era.
Conclusion
The stories of Umran Malik, Venkatesh Iyer, and Shadab Jakati highlight the challenging transition from IPL success to international cricket. The IPL, with its unique blend of entertainment and high-pressure games, often creates stars, but it does not always prepare players for the grind of international cricket, where adaptability, consistency, and mental toughness are key. These players serve as reminders that while the IPL can open doors, sustaining success on the international stage requires much more than just flashes of brilliance.(live score cricket ipl)