In the glitzy, high-octane world of the Indian Premier League (IPL), the narrative is often dominated by rising young stars, blockbuster trades, and record-breaking performances. But beneath the fireworks and glamour lies a more nuanced reality—the IPL has, time and again, served as a comeback haven for international cricketers who were either out of form, recovering from injury, or out of favour with their national selectors.
For many seasoned professionals, the IPL has acted as a lifeline, allowing them to reinvent themselves, prove their mettle on the biggest T20 stage, and mount spectacular returns to international cricket. It’s not just about the money or entertainment—it’s about narratives of resilience, of veterans refusing to fade into oblivion, and of legends finding a second wind. Let’s look at five international stars who used the IPL not just to reclaim form, but to re-enter the global cricketing conversation in style.
5. Tymal Mills (England)
- Comeback Year: 2021–22
- Franchise: Mumbai Indians (MI)
- IPL 2022 Stats: 6 wickets in 5 matches
Story:
Tymal Mills burst onto the scene as a left-arm pacer with extreme pace and deceptive slower deliveries. But his career was haunted by a congenital back condition, forcing him to retire from red-ball cricket at a young age. By 2018, he had slipped off England’s radar entirely. Although his stint with the Mumbai Indians in 2022 was short due to injury, his ability to clock high speeds and execute yorkers earned him a spot in England’s 2021 T20 World Cup squad—a major achievement for someone who had almost faded into oblivion.
Aftermath:
While he didn’t become a regular again, Mills’ short IPL comeback was enough to showcase his readiness and led to opportunities in The Hundred and BBL.
4. Mohit Sharma (India)
- Comeback Year: 2023
- Franchise: Gujarat Titans (GT)
- IPL 2023 Stats: 27 wickets in 14 matches | Average: 13.37 | Economy: 8.17
Story:
Once a regular in the Indian team and a purple cap contender in earlier IPLs, Mohit Sharma faded into obscurity after 2016 due to injuries and a dip in form. In IPL 2022, he joined the Gujarat Titans—not as a player, but as a net bowler. Cut to IPL 2023, and Mohit was not only in the playing XI but also became their most reliable death-over specialist. His mastery over slower balls, yorkers, and tactical variation helped him take 27 wickets. His five-wicket haul in the Qualifier was a testament to his mental strength and technical revival.
Aftermath:
Mohit Sharma’s comeback story stood as one of the most inspiring arcs of IPL 2023. It didn’t lead to a national recall, but it re-established him as a go-to option for pressure situations in franchise cricket.
3. David Warner (Australia)
- Comeback Year: 2022
- Franchise: Delhi Capitals (DC)
- IPL 2022 Stats: 432 runs in 12 matches | Average: 48.00 | Strike Rate: 150.52
Story:
The 2021 IPL was a rare low point for David Warner. Dropped as Sunrisers Hyderabad’s captain and then from the playing XI, his body language and form were questioned. For a player who had scored 500+ runs in 6 consecutive IPL seasons, it was a dramatic fall from grace. Moving to Delhi Capitals in 2022 gave Warner a fresh canvas—and he painted it with authority. He quickly became DC’s most consistent batter, adapting to different match situations and once again dominating the powerplay with fearless strokeplay.
Aftermath:
Warner’s IPL comeback revived faith in his abilities and was pivotal in his continued selection for Australia, including a strong showing in the 2021 T20 World Cup (Player of the Tournament) and his leadership role in Australia’s 2023 ODI World Cup triumph.
2. Dinesh Karthik (India)
- Comeback Year: 2022
- Franchise: Royal Challengers Bangalore (RCB)
- IPL 2022 Stats: 330 runs in 16 matches | Average: 55.00 | Strike Rate: 183.33
Story:
From being a wicketkeeper-batsman in the shadows of MS Dhoni to a journeyman across IPL franchises, Dinesh Karthik’s career was a rollercoaster. Post-2019 World Cup, he was nowhere in India’s plans. But Karthik, never short on ambition, saw IPL 2022 as a do-or-die opportunity. Picked by RCB, Karthik took on the finisher’s role with icy calm and explosive flair. He smashed bowlers at the death with clarity and confidence, helping RCB win multiple close encounters. His 183+ strike rate was among the highest in the season.
Aftermath:
Karthik’s remarkable turnaround earned him a spot in India’s squad for the 2022 T20 World Cup, where he played as a designated finisher—a role created entirely based on his IPL performance. At 37, he had rewritten his destiny.
1. Shane Watson (Australia)
- Comeback Year: 2018
- Franchise: Chennai Super Kings (CSK)
- IPL 2018 Stats: 555 runs in 15 matches | Average: 39.64 | Strike Rate: 154.59 | 2 Centuries
Story:
By 2016, Shane Watson had retired from international cricket and was seen as a fading all-rounder, struggling with injuries and waning influence. After a mediocre season with Royal Challengers Bangalore in 2017, many believed his T20 days were behind him. Drafted by Chennai Super Kings in their comeback season, Watson was entrusted with opening duties. He responded with vintage dominance, hammering bowlers with power and precision. His unbeaten 117 off 57 balls in the final against Sunrisers Hyderabad was a masterclass, helping CSK clinch their third title.
Aftermath:
Watson’s IPL resurgence led to a spike in demand across T20 leagues, including PSL and BBL, extending his franchise career by several years. He became a mentor figure and a symbol of how veterans can thrive if used correctly.
SEE MORE :
- Top 5 Foreign Leaders in IPL History by Win Percentage
- Top 5 Times a Mentor’s Influence Changed a Player’s IPL Career
- Top 5 Times IPL Players Shined in Other Leagues After Breakout Seasons
