Five Pakistan-born players who played in IPL after inaugural season

2. Imran Tahir

Former South Africa leg-spinner Imran Tahir was known for his excellent bowling. Before serving the Proteas in international cricket, Tahir represented the Pakistan Under-19 team. The leggie was born in Lahore, Punjab. Ahead of the 2011 World Cup, Tahir became a South African citizen which led to his selection in South Africa’s 2011 World Cup side.

In IPL, he made his debut in the 2014 edition for Delhi Daredevils (now Delhi Capitals). In DC’s unsuccessful campaign, Tahir picked up only nine wickets in six matches at an economy of 8.20. From 2018 to 2021, he also played for Chennai Super Kings (CSK) under the leadership of MS Dhoni.

Playing four seasons for the Men in Yellow, Tahir scalped 35 wickets in 27 games at an economy of 7.11, with the best figures of 4/12 against his former franchise Delhi Capitals in the 2019 edition of the league. In 2019, Tahir also became the recipient of Purple Cap, dismissing 26 batters in 17 matches at an economy of 6.69.