Benched after just one poor performance that’s the brutal reality some players face in the Indian Premier League (IPL). The tournament isn’t just a cricket league; it’s a high-stakes battlefield where every match feels like a final and every ball can shape or shatter careers. In this intense pressure-cooker environment, franchises are constantly juggling form, fitness, and strategy. While consistent performers are usually rewarded, even the most reliable names aren’t immune to being sidelined after a single off day.
Benching a player after one poor game despite an otherwise strong track record may sound extreme, but it is a stark reality in the IPL’s ruthless ecosystem. The tournament’s fast pace means that teams cannot afford to take risks on form slumps, especially when alternatives are waiting in the wings. These decisions are also influenced by the team’s combination of needs, pitch conditions, and sometimes the need to send a message of accountability.
This article explores five such instances where standout performers, known for their clutch contributions and impressive stats, found themselves unexpectedly on the sidelines. Their stories reveal not only the IPL’s unpredictability but also the resilience these players demonstrated to reclaim their spots and shine again.
5. Rahul Tripathi
Franchise: Sunrisers Hyderabad
Role: Aggressive Opening Batsman
Profile: Rahul Tripathi’s fearless strokeplay and ability to provide fast starts made him a valuable weapon in the Sunrisers Hyderabad lineup. With a strike rate well above 130 and an average that kept him consistent, he was known for setting the tone.
The Poor Game: In a nail-biting encounter, Tripathi was dismissed cheaply in the very first over, shifting momentum against the Sunrisers.
Why Benched?
With the squad boasting a wealth of batting talent, the team management chose to back players in better form at the time. This decision was tough but necessary in the context of fierce internal competition.
4. Shardul Thakur
Franchise: Delhi Capitals
Role: Bowling All-Rounder
Profile: Shardul Thakur carved out a niche as a dependable fast bowling option with the knack for delivering crucial breakthroughs. Additionally, his ability to contribute quick runs lower down the order enhanced his value.
The Poor Game: In a tense game, Thakur failed to pick up wickets and scored just a few runs, leaving the team vulnerable during a key phase of the match.
Why Benched?
Seeking to bolster the middle overs, DC opted to field an extra specialist bowler, prioritising containment over all-round contributions. This tactical choice reflected the changing dynamics of team strategy rather than a lack of faith in Thakur.
3. Ishan Kishan
Franchise: Mumbai Indians
Role: Opening Batsman and Wicketkeeper
Profile: Ishan Kishan burst onto the IPL scene with aggressive strokeplay, fearless hitting, and a high strike rate that put opposition bowlers under immediate pressure. His ability to turn games in the power play has made him a prized asset.
The Poor Game: In a high-pressure chase during IPL 2022, Kishan struggled to find timing, scoring a mere 5 runs off 10 balls. This slow start in a must-win match put Mumbai Indians on the back foot early.
Why Benched?
The team decided to experiment by giving a promising local youngster an opportunity, hoping to inject fresh energy at the top. While Kishan’s overall stats were impressive, the benching served as a wake-up call amid rising competition.
2. Sunil Narine
Franchise: Kolkata Knight Riders
Role: Spinner and Lower-order Hitter
Profile: Sunil Narine has long been a match-winner for KKR with his enigmatic mystery spin and handy batting skills. Known for his clever variations, Narine regularly kept his economy rate under control, often stifling opposition momentum in powerplay and middle overs.
The Poor Game: On a flat, batting-friendly surface in IPL 2024, Narine had a nightmare spell, conceding 40 runs in just three overs and failing to take a wicket. His lines and lengths were less effective, allowing the opposition to launch freely.
Why Benched?
The decision to drop Narine was driven largely by pitch conditions favoring pace bowling. KKR management wanted to exploit pace options and chose to rest their star spinner for a match. It was a strategic move rather than a reflection on Narine’s form or skill.
1. KL Rahul
Franchise: Lucknow Super Giants
Role: Opener & Captain
Profile: KL Rahul has been the epitome of consistency in the IPL for several seasons. A stylish, technically sound batsman with the ability to anchor innings or accelerate at will, Rahul commands respect for his calm demeanor and sharp cricketing brain. His record boasts an average hovering around mid-40s in IPL matches and a strike rate that balances aggression with control.
The Poor Game: During the early phase of IPL 2023, Rahul was stunned by a quick bowling spell and was dismissed for a duck in a match critical for LSG’s playoff hopes. It was a rare failure for a player who usually gets starts and converts them into big scores.
Why Benched?
Surprisingly, the franchise decided to rest Rahul for the next match. While fans were puzzled, sources revealed that the management was exploring giving opportunities to younger players and wanted to test different opening combinations. The decision wasn’t purely about form but about long-term team balance and workload management.
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