IPL: Did you know these Pakistan's stars played in IPL?
While there is no official ban on the Pakistan cricketers from taking part in the IPL, the Indian domestic T20 league snubbed them after the 2008 Mumbai terror attacks. This makes the inaugural season of the IPL in 2008, the only edition which featured players from Pakistan. 2008 IPL had as many as 11 Pakistani players. Here are some of these stars.
Shahid Afridi: A hot property even now
Veteran Shahid Afridi has to be the most popular Pakistan player to have graced the IPL. Afridi, who retired from international cricket in February 2017, was a part of the now-defunct IPL side, Deccan Chargers. The all-rounder played 10 IPL matches, where he scored 81 runs and claimed 9 wickets. He continues to shine with his 'boom-boom' performances in leagues like the PSL.
Shoaib Akhtar and Misbah-ul-Haq
Shoaib Akhtar was a part of the 2008 IPL for only three matches but nevertheless brought joy to the fans of Kolkata Knight Riders during his short spell where he picked 5 wickets. Misbah-ul-Haq was picked by the Royal Challengers Bangalore side in 2008 auction. He went on to play 8 matches, scoring 117 runs at an average of 16.71.
Shoaib Malik and Mohammad Hafeez
Shoaib Malik and Mohammad Hafeez are few of the active cricketer players who were also a part of the 2008 IPL. While Malik, who at the time was Pakistan's captain, played for Delhi Daredevils; Hafeez was picked by the Kolkata franchise. They played 7 and 8 matches, respectively. The two all-rounders continue to remain key T20 players for the Pakistan side.
Sohail Tanvir: Wrecker-in-chief for title winning Rajasthan franchise
Having earned the IPL's first ever purple cap with 22 scalps, Sohail Tanvir deserves a special mention. The left-arm pacer was instrumental in Rajasthan Royals' title winning run that year.
