The wait is finally over for the Indian Premier League (IPL) fans across the world. The cash-rich tournament will start from today at the Wankhede Stadium.
Moreover, defending champions Mumbai Indians will square off against Chennai Super Kings in the opening fixture.
While franchises have invested more on talented players, seasoned campaigners have failed to attract bidders. Those who went unsold will don the hat of commentators and will analyse the game from the commentary box.
Let us take a look at some of the Indian players who failed to get a contract this season and are part of commentary panel for this year’s tournament.
Rajat Bhatia:
The Delhi cricketer had failed to attract bidders in this season’s IPL. However, he will be part of the cash-rich league after being included in the list of Hindi commentators panel.
Previously, the all-rounder had represented Delhi Daredevils, Kolkata Knight Riders, Rajasthan Royals and Rising Pune Supergiant in the past.
Bhatia had done well with both bat and ball throughout his career in the league. However, last year he played only three games for Rising Pune Supergiant.
Pragyan Ojha:
The left-arm spinner had failed to get a team in the last two seasons of the league. However, the 31-year old had won the league four times in his career (3 Mumbai Indians, 1 Deccan Chargers) has been overlooked by the various franchises.
From the 92 matches he had played in his career so far, Ojha claimed 89 wickets.
The Orissa born player will now be present behind the mike as a Hindi commentator for this edition.
Ashok Dinda:
The fast bowler from Bengal didn’t get any bidder at the auctions early this year. However, he had done well in the domestic season for Bengal.
Dinda was a part of four franchises namely Royal Challengers Bangalore, Kolkata Knight Riders, Pune Warriors India, Delhi Daredevils and Rising Pune Supergiant.
Last year, Dinda played only three games for Pune and picked a lone wicket. This year he will be part of Bengali commentary panel.
Irfan Pathan:
The seasoned all-rounder had suffered many injuries which have halted his career from flourishing.
Last year, Gujarat Lions called him as a replacement for Windies all-rounder Dwayne Bravo. He played only one game but failed to pick wickets.
The 33-year old cricketer had played 103 matches in IPL so far and picked up 80 wickets. The all-rounder from Baroda found no takers at this year’s auction.
With no on-field action, Irfan will now be trying his hand at commentary after being named in the Hindi commentary panel.
