Indian Premier League (IPL) is one of the most popular cricket leagues in the world, with millions of fans tuning in every year to watch their favorite players battle it out for the coveted trophy. While some players have become household names due to their outstanding performances, there are others who have gone under the radar despite their impressive contributions to their respective teams. In this blog, we will highlight the five most underrated players in IPL history.
Number 1. Subramanium Badrinath
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Subramanium Badrinath, a reliable and versatile batsman for Chennai Super Kings, is often considered underrated in IPL. Despite playing a crucial role in the team’s success, he was overshadowed by other star players and international superstars. Additionally, he did not get many opportunities to play for India or other IPL teams.
However, Badrinath’s achievements in IPL are noteworthy. He scored 1441 runs for CSK at an average of 30.65 and a strike rate of 118.89. He played in five IPL finals with CSK and won two titles with them in 2010 and 2011. Known for his calm temperament, he had the ability to adapt to different situations, making him a valuable asset to the team.
Number 2. Mitchell McClenaghan
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Despite his consistent and effective performances for Mumbai Indians since 2015, Mitchell McClenaghan remains one of the most underrated players in the IPL. Sadly, the New Zealand international has not received much recognition or appreciation for his contributions to the team. Moreover, he was overlooked by the national team and was released by MI ahead of IPL 2021.
However, his achievements in IPL speak volumes about his abilities, which include being the second-fastest bowler in ODI history to take 50 wickets. In 56 matches for MI, McClenaghan has taken 71 wickets at an economy of 8.49. He has also played a crucial role in the team’s success, helping them win three IPL titles in 2015, 2017, and 2019.
Number 3. Robin Uthappa
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Since 2008, Robin Uthappa has played for various teams in the IPL and amassed over 4600 runs in 189 matches at a strike rate of 129.99. Notably, he was a part of the Kolkata Knight Riders team that clinched the IPL title twice in 2012 and 2014.
Despite his consistent performances in domestic cricket and the IPL, some consider Uthappa underrated as he hasn’t played for India since 2015. He has had to adapt to different teams’ needs, changing his batting position and role accordingly. Additionally, he has often been overshadowed by star players like Sachin Tendulkar, Virat Kohli, and Gautam Gambhir in his teams.
Number 4. Yusuf Pathan
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Yusuf Pathan, a powerful hitter and handy off-spinner, is often considered underrated in IPL. Despite playing crucial roles for his teams, he did not receive enough recognition or opportunities at the international level. Additionally, he faded away from the limelight in the later stages of his career.
However, Pathan’s achievements in IPL are impressive. He scored 3204 runs in 174 matches at an average of 29.12 and a strike rate of 142.97. He also took 42 wickets at an economy rate of 7.40 with his off-spin. He smashed the fastest IPL century in just 37 balls for Rajasthan Royals against Mumbai Indians in 2010. Furthermore, he was part of three IPL-winning teams, including RR in 2008 and KKR in 2012 and 2014.
Number 5. Piyush Chawla
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Piyush Chawla, a consistent and reliable leg-spinner who has been playing in the IPL since its inception, is considered to be underrated in the tournament. Despite being one of the most successful spinners in IPL history, he has not played for India since 2012 and does not receive much attention or appreciation for his performances. Chawla has taken 156 wickets in 164 matches at an economy rate of 7.87 and a strike rate of 21.28. He is the third-highest wicket-taker in IPL history, behind Lasith Malinga and Amit Mishra.
Chawla has played for four different franchises in the IPL, namely Kings XI Punjab, Kolkata Knight Riders, Chennai Super Kings, and Mumbai Indians. He has won three IPL titles with KKR in 2012 and 2014 and MI in 2021. Despite his impressive record, Chawla remains an underrated player in the tournament, with his contributions often overlooked or underestimated.
