Has IPL damaged Indian cricket and changed how we assess cricketers?

The Indian Premier League (IPL) is one of the biggest and commercially most successful cricket leagues in the sporting world. Since its inception in 2008, the league has grown rapidly in popularity, attracting massive viewership and providing life-changing opportunities to cricket players.

From Jasprit Bumrah to Yuzvendra Chahal to Hardik Pandya, many have risen to prominence through consistent performances in the IPL and have later become integral parts of the national team.

But, while the cash-rich league has contributed immensely to Indian cricket, it has also raised some serious concerns. One of the growing issues is the need to judge players based on the number of IPL trophies they have won. The approach is flawed in nature. Cricket is a team sport, and success in franchise leagues does not always reflect individual talent or contribution.

For instance, KL Rahul, one of India’s most dependable Test batters and a proven performer in international cricket, has not yet won an IPL trophy. But, this does not diminish his value or talent in the sport.

The IPL is primarily business-oriented, and should not be the sole parameter to assess a cricketer’s worth. The league’s growing influence has made many young players give priority to performing in the IPL over any other level. The shift could prove detrimental to the long-term future of the sport, especially in Test format, which demands patience and endurance.

While the IPL continues to play a significant role in shaping Indian cricket, it is essential to strike a balance. The players' achievements in one glittering tournament should not overshadow their overall contribution to the game. The integrity of all cricketing formats must be preserved, and players should be celebrated for their complete skill, not just their franchise success.