A domestic T20 league was established a few months after India won the inaugural T20 World Cup. Though many were unsure and quite critical, and as the format raised many doubts and speculation, the arrival of the Indian Premier League revitalized Indian cricket. Flocking of crowds and audiences, saw the inclusion of business tycoons, Bollywood superstars, and International famed cricketers.
Since then a lot has changed and T20 has now become one of the leading formats of the game. Giving T20 International status recognition to associate nations, many countries are encouraged to enter the game of cricket. The grandness of IPL has twinkled in the eyes of the cricket boards of every cricketing nation, with almost all cricketing nations wanting a T20 league of their own today.
Amongst all this, The Indian Premier League has gone on to establish itself as a marquee competition, one of the most followed cricketing competitions in the world. IPL contracts have become one the most aspired after for cricketers around the world. From franchises to the players, to the crowds, IPL brings a time of joy and excitement.,
With the Indian Premier League turning 14 this year, Let’s take a look at the top reasons why the IPL will stand out as the top sought-after league for the fans.
Underdog stories
Regardless of it being sports or real life, everyone loves to see the journey of an underdog scaling new heights and capturing people’s imaginations. From uncapped players bagging big contracts which change their fortunes, or Rajasthan Royals overcoming star-powered teams to win the inaugural IPL, or a player like T. Natrajan rising from poverty to the elites of the competition. IPL has presented itself to be a platform of opportunities where underdogs can write their stories.
Rule Changes
With ever-changing technology and the revision of rules, the lawmakers of the game are striving towards much fairer standards of the game. Although construed logic leads to inept laws that would disturb the flow of the game, such as one of the causes of frustration with the soft signal during the India and England series for the fans. BCCI has seen the problem and has rung up changes for the IPL to ease the concerns of many, hoping this year there will be less cause for controversy.
Young Captains
The Indian Premier League has always been a proving ground for youngsters, with those with the ability and talents rising to the occasion and making people take notice. Virat Kohli, Steve Smith, Shreyas Iyer were some who were handed on the skipper’s role tasked with leading much experienced superstars.
This year we will have two more players join the club of young captains with Sanju Samson handed over the captaincy after Steve Smith was released from the team and then Rishabh Pant, who would be the replacement captain for Shreyas Iyer who will be unavailable due to injury. It will be interesting to take note of how these young guns fare.
Return of IPL to India
In these pandemic-struck times, amongst all the lockdowns, social distancing, player bubbles, etc. We have experienced quite a few changes to normal routines. One big change last year was the IPL taking place in Abu Dhabi instead of India, to cope with covid and conduct the tournament in a safe manner. Filled with drama, emotion, and suspense, IPL is a time that brings families together and the audience will be glad the IPL returns to India as it restores some sense of normality, even though crowds wouldn’t be allowed in yet.
Preparation for T20 World Cup
With just months left for the 2021 T20 World Cup which is to be held in India, IPL will be testing grounds for many players. Some hoping to stake claims into national squads, some looking to return into form. IPL represents an excellent opportunity especially for the Indian players as hopes are riding high for the nation. It will also be an excellent opportunity for International players to get acclimated to sub-continent conditions and gather as much experience in regards to what works best and not.
With teams preparing for the long wait new season of IPL, we are sure in store for much excitement in the coming days ahead. With international celebrities and cricketers adding to the glamour and glitz of the tournament, India will be glued to its TV sets, as once again IPL will become a topic of discussion. Let us know what you think about the Indian Premier League and what stands out for you the most.
