5 Foreign players who got national call-up due to IPL performances

In 2008, cricket enthusiasts from all around the globe were keenly looking forward to the inaugural edition of IPL, simply because of its unique concept. Fans had never really seen players of varying nationalities, or should we say top players from different nations play together. The curiosity was real and it won’t be wrong to say that IPL lived up to the hype. The illustrious competition became an instant hit as fans worldwide cherished the franchise club tournament.

IPL has given us all a plethora of memorable moments. From pulsating last-over dramas to the mind-boggling fireworks, the entertainment quotient has been blowing the roof for the past 12 years. Talking about the impact IPL has made ever since it’s inception, it is fascinating to note that numerous cricketers have gained a substantial amount of success from the star-studded tournament.

The rules of the competition state that a team can field only four foreign players in a match which makes things a little tougher for the overseas players. They don’t just have to shine bright but shine bright consistently in order to stand out from the rest. All in all, the task is challenging for overseas players simply because the opportunities are meagre whereas the competition is extensive.

But as they, when the going gets tough, the tough get going and these men listed below are the epitome of the aforementioned statement. These men have received laurels, appreciations and most importantly, national call-ups owing to their deeds in the IPL. Achieving an opportunity to represent their nation is a testament to their fabulous performances in the Indian Premier League.

Here we list down 5 foreign cricketers who got a national call up because of their performance in IPL

1. Sunil Narine

2013 saw Kolkata Knight Riders lift the majestic IPL trophy for the very first time in history. The franchise owned by the famous Bollywood actor, Shahrukh Khan, reigned supreme over Chennai Super Kings in the final to become the champions. The season saw the rise of a certain Sunil Narine who rattled the opposition batsmen with his uncanny bowling style, one which helped him grab 24 wickets in the tournament.

Narine was deservingly named as the Man of the Series for his trickery with the ball. The ecstasy was real for KKR fans and as for Sunil Narine, the celebrations had just begun. His sensational performances led to his call-up to the national side. Narine made his Test debut against England at Edgbaston.

He soon became a regular and was subsequently named in the ODI XI and T20 XI of 2012. Over the years, numerous players have enjoyed impressive debut campaigns in IPL but there has never been something as breath-taking as Sunil Narine’s debut season in 2012. The West Indian is still signed with KKR and now plays a pivotal role with the bat as well.