The most anticipated event of cricket is to begin from 19th September in the United Arab Emirates (UAE). IPL gives a great platform to players to showcase their talent. But in some cases the players find it difficult to perform at an elevated level. The players with uncertain performances have been cut out by the respective teams. The level of competition is set so high that one bad season is enough for a player to lose his position in the squad. Some players rebound and earn their place back the next year, while some are forced to bring an end to their IPL career. Today we will take a look at 5 cricketers who may never be seen from the next IPL.
Harbhajan Singh
Harbhajan Singh is undoubtedly one of the best spinners India has ever had. He has the second-highest number of Test wickets after Anil Kumble. He has also shown a great performance in domestic cricket. The veteran off-spinner has played 160 IPL matches, in which he has claimed 150 wickets with an average of 26.44 and an economy rate of 7.05. However, the veteran spinner has slowed down a bit and is one of the oldest players in the tournament. This season could be imperative for the spinner to prove his ability to hand with the best and fastest.
Amit Mishra
The leg spinner has played for India in 36 ODIs with a decent average of 23.62 and test average of 35.72. It has been four years since Amit Mishra has played for India now. He has had a great IPL career, and is one of the top wicket-takers in the tournament, However his advancing age has raised fitness concerns, which could be a reason for his departure from the IPL.
Lasith Malinga
The 37 year old Sri Lankan player Separamdu Lasith Malinga has represented the Mumbai Indians in the IPL for a very long time now. He has also won the purple cap for taking the highest number of wickets in the fourth season of IPL. He retired from the One Day Internationals in 2019. Malinga has been a strong pillar for the Mumbai Indians structure. As he has already announced his retirement from all forms of cricket, he might wind down his IPL career too.
Dale Steyn
Dale Steyn represented Deccan Chargers earlier, and now plays for the Royal Challengers Bangalore. He announced his retirement from the Test format last year and focused only on limited overs cricket. The right-handed South African is one of the best fast bowlers in the world, and has an economy of 6.72 in the IPL. Owing to his injuries, fitness can be a concern for Steyn. Injury concerns are the biggest reason why Steyn might end his IPL career to focus on his international duties.
Yusuf Pathan
The former Indian all-rounder Yusuf Pathan has played for Rajasthan Royals, Kolkata Knight Riders and SRH. The explosive batsman has had an inconsistent IPL career, and has considerably slowed down due to his age and long cricketing career. This may be the last time we ever see the elder Pathan brother.
