Beyond the big names -- celebrating the silent contributors who power IPL victories
The IPL's bright lights shine on superstars who smash boundaries and take heart-stopping catches. But beneath the glitz and glamour, lesser-known players contribute silently to their teams' success. This article delves into the stories of five such unsung heroes—players who've defied the odds and emerged as surprise IPL champions—not once, but twice!
Credit: @IndCricket24x7
Mithun with IPL trophy
Remember the fiery pace attack of the Mumbai Indians in 2015 and 2016? Jasprit Bumrah, Lasith Malinga, and Mitchell McClenaghan—these names strike fear into any batsman's heart. But nestled amongst them was Abhimanyu Mithun, a player whose name might not readily come to mind.
While Mithun never got a chance to play for MI due to the presence of these bowling giants, he was part of their victorious campaigns in 2015. The following year, a similar story unfolded with Sunrisers Hyderabad. Mithun remained on the bench as they clinched the IPL title, proving that sometimes valuable contributions come in unexpected forms.
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Blizzard in MI colours
Aiden Blizzard's story is one of "so near yet so far." He was a part of the Mumbai Indians squad that won the IPL in 2013 and 2015. In 2011, he even displayed his explosive batting with a 30-ball 51 against the Kolkata Knight Riders. However, in both championship years, Blizzard remained on the bench, a testament to the depth of the Mumbai batting line-up. Despite not taking the field, he undoubtedly contributed to the team spirit and celebrated the victories alongside his teammates.
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Hilfenhaus was a pillar of CSK’s pace attack
Ben Hilfenhaus seems to have an uncanny knack for being part of winning teams! He was picked up by the Chennai Super Kings in 2011, the year they clinched the IPL trophy. However, Hilfenhaus didn't play a single game that season. He later joined the Mumbai Indians in 2015, another year they emerged victorious. While he remained on the bench once again, Hilfenhaus can proudly boast of having two IPL titles to his name, even if his contribution came from the sidelines.
Credit: @KRxtra
Hero of the 2012 IPL final
Manvinder Bisla's journey is truly inspiring. His first IPL stint was with the Deccan Chargers, the 2009 champions. Though he didn't get a chance to play, he was part of the winning squad. His big moment arrived with the Kolkata Knight Riders in 2012. This time, he wasn't just a silent observer; he was the hero of the final, smashing a match-winning 89 off just 48 deliveries. Bisla even secured a place in the KKR team that won the IPL in 2014, although he only played one match that season.
Dwayne Smith's story is a blend of hidden talent and explosive batting. In 2009, he was a key player for the champion Deccan Chargers, their fifth-highest run scorer, and even bagged a Man of the Match award. He later joined the Mumbai Indians in 2012 and became a vital cog in their 2013 championship run.
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Smith with Sachin Tendulkar
Smith was their leading run scorer, and his power-hitting was crucial in several matches. He even bagged two Man of the Match awards that season. While he missed the final due to injury, his contribution cannot be understated.
These five players are a testament to the fact that success in the IPL isn't always about individual brilliance in the spotlight. It's about teamwork, dedication, and the unwavering support system that exists within a team.
