Top 5 international players who got the national call up prior to IPL success

The Indian Premier League (IPL) has provided a platform for both international and domestic players showcase their talent. It is not surprising when one realizes that many players have been quite successful in this star-studded tournament.

The Indian Premier League has also provided international players with a breakthrough in their international careers. Here we list 5 such players who got a national call up prior to their success in IPL:

1. Shane Watson

In the first season of the IPL, Shane Watson was instrumental in RR’s success to lift the 1st IPL trophy. Watson, in 17 matches, smacked 412 runs in total in IPL 2008. His heroics helped him earn the trust of the Australian national team management.

Ever since 2008, Watson has been a constant starter for the Australian National team. However, in 2018, Watson announced his retirement from international cricket.

2. Shaun Marsh

By the end of the year 2008, Marsh had become the talk of the town. Marsh was outstanding in the inaugural season of IPL. Playing just 11 matches, Marsh smashed an instance 616 runs. Owing to his brilliant batting, Marsh was the highest run-getter in the IPL in 2008. His performance in IPL 2008 helped Marsh get his maiden call up for the Australian squad set to tour West Indies in 2008.

3. Andre Russell

A one-man army, Russell is one of the finds of the Indian Premier League. Dre Russ made his international debut back in 2011. However, the West Indian powerhouse has not been consistent at the international level.

Back in IPL 2019, Russell was at his peak. With a superb strike rate of 204.81, Russell smashed 510 runs in just 14 matches in IPL 2019. Prior to his performance in 2019, Russell received a national call-up from West Indies for the World Cup Squad.

4. David Miller

David Miller is one of those few South African cricketers who lit the IPL with his explosive batting performances. In 2013, Miller had his breakthrough season in the IPL. In just 12 games, Miller smashed 418 runs in total in IPL 2013. His heroics did not go unnoticed as he received a national call-up from the Proteas later on.

5. Sunil Narine

KKR won their first-ever IPL trophy in 2012. West Indian cricketer Sunil Narine was quite crucial in KKR’s road to victory in IPL 2012. Narine was outstanding with the ball in IPL 2012. In 15 matches, the West Indian picked a total of 24 wickets. Moreover, his bowling economy of 5.47 in IPL 2012 outlines how important the West Indian’s contribution was. Owing to his outing in IPL 2012, Narine received his 1st national call up against England.

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