5 players from the 80s we would have loved to see in the IPL

The IPL has transformed from a two-month entertainment show to one of the most prized, coveted competitions for T20 players around the world. It has created numerous stars – Chris Gayle and Shane Watson found their true calling in the IPL’s formative years – and has turned local boys into household names.

Against this backdrop, Sportskeeda lists 5 erstwhile cricketers we would have loved to see in the IPL.

Vivian Richards

The Caribbean King would have utilized the small boundaries to his advantage.

With shoulders broadened and a brutal swagger, Vivian Richards, wielding the bat like a mace, would’ve easily been the most successful batsman in this format. A stunning strike rate of 90.20 in ODIs has often egged awestruck fans to label him the best ODI batsman of all time. And rightly so, for his mere presence on the field was enough to instil fear into the bowler.

The windmilling arms, the stare into the bowler’s eyes...you knew the king was on strike. And he ruled over his kingdom with such pomp – timing, placement, power, finesse included – that he’d make his opponents bowl where he wanted them to bowl. Full delivery outside off stump? Flayed through cover. Pitched on the pads? Flicked with the help of those Caribbean wrists to midwicket.

T20 would’ve been a cakewalk for him; he’d make the likes of Chris Gayle look pedestrian.