IPL 2017: Top 5 performances from English players in IPL history

#3 Ravi Bopara: 84 for Kings XI Punjab v Royal Challengers Bangalore in 2009

Bopara produced his best IPL performances for KXIP in 2009

Ravi Bopara was one of nine English players picked up for the second season of the IPL, and the precocious talent was quick to make an impact in South Africa. The added responsibility as an opener was no burden for Bopara, who made a classy 84 as Kings XI chased 169 with an over to spare against Royal Challengers Bangalore.

He started watchfully, ticking the strike over allowing his partners to make headway, but after Kumar Sangakkara fell in the 13th over, Bopara assumed command.

With two runs a ball required, the Englishman clattered Praveen Kumar for 19 in the 16th over to cut the rate down to size. Further sixes followed against Jesse Ryder and, while unable to see out the win himself, Bopara’s composed acceleration ensured Punjab got home without drama.

Bopara’s IPL career ultimately encapsulated his England one – scattered with excellence but devoid of consistency. He played just two seasons for Punjab before reappearing briefly for Sunrisers Hyderabad in 2015. He last played for England in the same year.