The IPL is one of the most established club competitions in cricket, and it has become steeped in history.
We are used to seeing fireworks, whether it be some monster batting performances, with players launching huge boundaries to all parts of the ground, or bowlers getting in on the act, and sending the stumps cartwheeling with their sheer pace.
However, it seems that the wicketkeepers are a side part of the show, even though they should probably get more attention.
Over the years, we have seen some spectacular dismissals, whether it be stumpings, catches or through other comical ways.
Nevertheless, it is the quick thinking of those wicketkeepers that have helped spare the blushes of the bowlers, and get their side out of a rather sticky situation.
Anyway, the most prolific wicketkeeper when it comes to dismissals, is MS Dhoni. In 211 IPL appearances, he has taken 114 catches, 39 stumpings, and 153 dismissals, which is a pretty astonishing rate by all accounts.
Wicketkeepers are known to have razor sharp reflexes, especially when they are standing up to fast bowlers, or up close to the stumps when trying to take in deliveries of the spin variety.
There are a few recognisable names in the list, as Dinesh Karthik is second on the list of most dismissals by a wicketkeeper in the IPL. He has played eight fewer matches than Dhoni, and he has claimed 144 victims.
Outside of the top ten, you will find the likes of Kumar Sangakkara (43 dismissals), and South African AB de Villiers (34), however, let’s not forget the pair aren’t renowned for their IPL exploits, and they have played significantly fewer matches.
In general, excitement is building up for the 2022 edition of the IPL. The auction gets underway in a couple of weeks’ time, and there are likely to be some big deals struck. Like in any other year, the competition will be fierce on the field, and there are plenty of teams with lots of pedigree, such as the Mumbai Indians, and the Chennai Super Kings, with the former the most recent winners of the tournament. And the interest in the IPL has translated to the betting arena as well, where the most established IPL betting sites, such as Betway, have been rushing to advertise odds on a wide range of markets, including outrights, such as who will win the tournament, as well as who will end up being the most expensive player resulting from the auction.
Anyway, we can expect to see plenty of fireworks when the IPL gets underway in a few months. Whatever happens, the tournament will make for absorbing viewing, and it has risen in profile as a T20 tournament.
And next time you’re watching the IPL, make sure that you keep an eye out on the wicketkeepers, as they will likely be weaving some magic behind the stumps.
Disclaimer: Gambling involves an element of financial risk and maybe addictive. Please play responsibly and at your own risk. Subject to applicable laws.
