IPL misses you (Part 2)

Shahid Afridi – Few players in world cricket have been as grossly inconsistent and equally enjoyable as Afridi. Ever since proving his mettle with a 37-balls-century Afridi has brought with him expectations whenever and wherever he has stepped. Although, over the years Afridi has matured into a far more competitive cricketer — an excellent leg-spinner and a leader of repute — it would be foolish to say that he has succeeded in living up to our hopes. Still this flamboyant Pakistani rules our hearts by sheer unpredictability of his personality, both on and off the field.After a disappointing first season with the Deccan Chargers, he never got another chance to play in the IPL — due to the Pakistani players being disallowed from the league. Given another chance who knows what would have happened? On his better days, boom boom Afridi has all that’s required to counter-attack Chris Gayle.

Sohail Tanvir – Tanvir will always be remembered by Indians for his performance in the first edition of the IPL. He was Warne’s go-to man whenever in need, without him and Watson that Royal triumph would not have been possible. Yet after all the heroic Tanvir’s international career has gone downward. He hasn’t played any international match for Pakistan this season. Had the situation been different, this year’s IPL could have acted as a comeback vehicle.

Saeed Ajmal – The Pakistani off-spinner has been making news for quite some time now, and his performances for the national team shows why. He was the highest wicket-taker last season with 50 wickets from eight matches and has regularly troubled opponents with his variations. After destroying England in their whitewash of them, Indian fans would have been dying to watch him in action in their own backyard, competing against the likes of Sunil Narine.

Yuvraj Singh – Pune Warriors had lost half the battle when they lost out on Yuvraj Singh. His modest IPL record may not excite any cricket enthusiast, but no one ever doubts Yuvraj’s ability as a cricketer. India won the World Cup last year largely due to the all-round performance of Yuvi, this year carrying that form of him he could have helped Pune attain that elusive combination.

Kemar Roach – Roach troubled the Australians with his ferocious spells of bowling recently concluded series at home. The fast bowler has emerged as one of West Indies’ new hope.The IPL already has a number of West Indians — Pollard, Dwayne Bravo, Darren Smith, Chris Gayle, Narine — performing at their best. Roach’s addition would have added some extra zing to the league.

Stuart Broad – Broad has come a long way from that infamous over when he was hit for six consecutive sixes by Yuvraj Singh. He has molded himself into a fine all-rounder. His exploits last season in England had cost India dearly. It was unfortunate that he got injured and missed the IPL this season, otherwise Kings XI Punjab could have made the playoffs.

IPL misses you (Part 1)