Kochi Tuskers Kerala's first-ever playing XI in the IPL. Where are they now?

2. VVS Laxman

One of the best stroke players of the cricket ball, VVS Laxman opened the innings with the New Zealander. While he may be one of the finest Test match players for India, his demand wasn’t any less, in the shortest format. Shredding the bowling attack to pieces on his best days, the Kochi team had the perfect hot and cool combination right at the top of the order.

The right-handers put up an opening stand of 80 in 8 overs, placing the Kerala team in a commanding position. However, a mistimed slog sweep off Dilshan led to the ball landing right into Pujara’s hand at deep midwicket. VVS Laxman departed for 36 off 29 balls with a couple of boundaries and sixes to his name.

After he retired from international cricket in 2012, he continued to play domestic cricket for Hyderabad during that year. While he had been a mentor for the Sunrisers Hyderabad side in the IPL until last season, he has now taken charge as the Director at the National Cricket Academy.