It is almost close to two decades since IPL started. Yet, there are some players who are very active even now. The likes of MS Dhoni, Virat Kohli and Rohit Sharma are still the pillars of their side. However, a few players have lost their mojo and are now just backups. Hence, they might not play a lot of games in the coming season. On that note, here, we take a look at the list of five Indians from IPL 2008 who might warm the bench in IPL 2024.
1) Manish Pandey – Kolkata Knight Riders
Manish Pandey was unsold in the first round of the IPL 2024 Auctions. It was in the accelerated round that KKR picked him at his base price. Pandey would be the backup for the strong Indian batting core at KKR.
Shreyas Iyer, Nitish Rana and Rinku Singh will be the Indian batting trio at KKR. Venkatesh Iyer did well last season while KS Bharat could come in as the keeper. Hence, Pandey will be a backup and might warm the bench.
2) Ishant Sharma – Delhi Capitals
Ishant Sharma is one of the Indians from IPL 2008 who might warm the bench in IPL 2024. Yes, Ishant Sharma was used as an Impact Player last season but since then, his form in domestic cricket has not been great. Mukesh Kumar has also grown in stature and will be the lead Indian bowler.
The likes of Rasikh Dar could also get a chance as the Indian pacer. K Khaleel Ahmed, of course, will be one of the Indian pacers because of the variety he brings in as the left-arm pacer.
3) Swapnil Singh – Royal Challengers Bangalore
Not many know that Swapnil Singh was a part of IPL 2008. It is interesting because an uncapped player has such longevity in the competition. Surprisingly, he has also not played a lot of IPL cricket.
A spin-bowling all-rounder, RCB added him for his experience at IPL 2024 Auctions. However, Mayank Dagar will be preferred for this role. Therefore, Swapnil might not play a lot of games for the side. He could spend most of his time on the sidelines.
4) Amit Mishra – Lucknow Super Giants
Amit Mishra is also one of the Indians from IPL 2008 who might warm the bench in IPL 2024. It was a surprise that LSG retained the veteran for IPL 2024. While he can be used as an Impact Player, he would have a lot of competition in IPL 2024.
M Siddharth was hired by LSG at IPL 2024 Auctions. He offers stability and control with his left-arm spin. K Gowtham is anyways available if the team needs a right-arm off-spinner. Hence, the chances for Amit Mishra could be reduced.
5) Rishi Dhawan – Punjab Kings
Rishi Dhawan was with the then Kings XI Punjab in IPL 2008. But, he could not get a single game. He would continue to play for PBKS in IPL 2024, as well.
With the rise of Vidwath Kaverappa, Rishi Dhawan might not be the preferred choice with the new ball. The arrival of Harshal Patel will also dent the chances for Rishi as Harshal can also lend some service with the bat.
