Global T20 leagues like the BBL, CPL, PSL, and The Hundred have become cricket’s biggest stages—but for many stars, their journey truly begins in the Indian Premier League (IPL). More than just a tournament, the IPL is a career-defining launchpad. With its intense competition and massive viewership, one standout season can transform an unknown talent into a global sensation. But the real challenge lies beyond—how do these breakout stars adapt and perform across different leagues, in unfamiliar conditions, and under new pressures?
In this article, we delve into five fascinating journeys of cricketers who burst onto the scene with a breakout IPL season and used that momentum to shine in various other T20 leagues like the Big Bash League (BBL), Caribbean Premier League (CPL), Pakistan Super League (PSL), The Hundred, and SA20. These stories are not just about talent but about adaptability, consistency, and global cricketing dominance.
5. Harry Brook
IPL Breakout Year: 2023 (Sunrisers Hyderabad)
Performance: 190 runs in 11 matches | One century.
Harry Brook’s maiden IPL campaign was a mixed bag. While he struggled for consistency, his blazing unbeaten 100 off 55 balls against Kolkata Knight Riders showed his potential against top-quality spin and pace in Indian conditions.
Post-IPL Impact:
- The Hundred: Became a mainstay in Northern Superchargers, showcasing an aggressive brand of batting.
- BBL: Snapped up by franchises based on his IPL hundred and international promise.
- SA20 & ILT20: Continued his growth by participating in South African and UAE leagues, building a reputation for handling pressure and rotating strike well.
- England National Team: Solidified his position as a middle-order finisher in T20Is and ODIs.
4. Jofra Archer
IPL Breakout Year: 2018 (Rajasthan Royals)
Performance: 15 wickets in 10 matches | Economy rate: 6.84
Jofra Archer had already made waves in the English domestic circuit and the BBL, but it was his impactful debut IPL season that solidified his reputation as a lethal pacer. Bowling with raw pace and precision, Archer terrorised batting line-ups.
Post-IPL Impact:
- 2019 ICC Cricket World Cup: Archer was fast-tracked into the England team and played a decisive role in their maiden title run, including bowling the historic Super Over in the final.
- BBL & The Hundred: Featured for Hobart Hurricanes and Southern Brave, often headlining matches with quick spells and fiery pace.
- Franchise Demand: Signed by Mumbai Indians in 2022 despite injury concerns—a testament to his value and marketability post-IPL.
3. Sam Curran
IPL Breakout Year: 2020 (Chennai Super Kings)
Performance: 13 wickets and 186 runs in 14 matches
Sam Curran’s versatility was on full display in the 2020 season, where he not only opened the bowling but also played the role of a lower-order finisher. For a team like CSK, struggling that season, Curran was one of the few bright spots.
Post-IPL Impact:
- BBL: Represented the Sydney Sixers, quickly becoming a dependable asset for both batting and bowling.
- The Hundred: Played a crucial role for Oval Invincibles, helping them secure the title in 2023.
- T20 World Cup 2022: Named Player of the Tournament after a spectacular campaign for England, where he consistently delivered in death overs.
- IPL 2023: Re-signed by Punjab Kings for a record-breaking ₹18.5 crore, becoming the most expensive player in IPL history.
2. Nicholas Pooran
IPL Breakout Year: 2020 (Kings XI Punjab)
Performance: 353 runs in 14 matches | Strike Rate: 169.71 | 25 sixes
Known for his flamboyant stroke play and fearless hitting, Nicholas Pooran lit up the 2020 IPL season in the UAE with a barrage of sixes and a near-unmatched strike rate. Despite Punjab’s inconsistent form, Pooran’s ability to take on the best bowlers made him a fan favourite.
Post-IPL Impact:
- CPL: Played a leadership role for St. Kitts & Nevis Patriots, guiding them to their maiden CPL title in 2021. His maturity and match-winning innings cemented his place as a Caribbean stalwart.
- PSL: Featured for Multan Sultans, adding middle-order firepower and stability.
- ILT20 & The Hundred: Signed lucrative deals and continued showcasing his range-hitting and wicket-keeping skills.
- West Indies National Team: Appointed white-ball captain, proving that IPL success helped elevate his status as a leader.
1. Rashid Khan
IPL Breakout Year: 2017 (Sunrisers Hyderabad)
Performance: 17 wickets in 14 matches | Economy rate: 6.62
When Sunrisers Hyderabad picked a relatively unknown 18-year-old Rashid Khan from Afghanistan in 2017, few expected him to become a franchise legend. But his quick-arm action, deadly googlies, and unbelievable maturity under pressure made him an instant hit. His ability to outfox the best batsmen in the world gave SRH a new edge.
Post-IPL Impact:
- BBL: Rashid joined the Adelaide Strikers and immediately became one of the league’s biggest stars. His consistent wicket-taking and low economy made him a match-winner in Australian conditions, and he remains one of the most sought-after overseas players in BBL history.
- CPL: Represented Guyana Amazon Warriors in this league, where he bagged a hat-trick and showcased his value in Caribbean conditions.
- PSL: A key player for Lahore Qalandars, where he helped transform the team’s bowling attack.
- The Hundred: Represented Trent Rockets, carrying over his IPL confidence into a new format.
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