Cricket fans have long debated whether the Indian Premier League helps or harms Indian cricket. With India's recent international successes, many believe the league plays a key role in developing the sport nationwide. The IPL was created to give talented cricketers opportunities to compete alongside world-class players, learn from experienced professionals, and perform before large audiences. Over the years, the tournament has produced numerous cricketers who excelled for the national team. Players traditionally performed well in domestic cricket, got selected by IPL franchises at auctions, impressed with their league performances, and then earned national team call-ups. However, the selection process has become more complex. Strong IPL performances do not automatically guarantee a place in Team India. Multiple factors now influence whether a player receives international opportunities, making the pathway from franchise cricket to national duty less straightforward than it once appeared.
Why IPL Success Does Not Guarantee National Selection
Several examples demonstrate that impressive IPL performances do not ensure selection. Yashasvi Jaiswal, despite his aggressive batting across recent IPL seasons, has received limited T20I opportunities. Shreyas Iyer captained Kolkata Knight Riders to the 2024 IPL title and led Punjab Kings to their first final in 11 years in 2025, yet has not played a T20I since December 2012. Meanwhile, Sai Sudharsan, the highest run-scorer in IPL 2025, was selected for India's five-match Test tour of England despite a first-class average below 40. Players may excel as openers in the IPL but be asked to bat lower in the national team if established openers already occupy those positions. Selectors must also assess whether franchise cricket success translates to international level, where only the best bowlers compete.
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