IPL 2015: 5 World Cup flops who could set the tournament alight

A week has not passed since the World Cup’s picturesque culmination in Melbourne but attention has swiftly turned to the imminent return of cricket’s boldest offspring: the Indian Premier League (IPL). Now in its eighth edition – and back exclusively in India – the tournament once again promises blasts of Bollywood and boundaries in a way only the sport’s most glitzy showpiece can provide. As always, however, a show needs stars and while the trials and tribulations of Shah Rukh Khan and Preity Zinta will undoubtedly feature in the sub-plots, it’s the cricketers who will take centre stage on their own turf. But while those who dominated in Australia and New Zealand will hope to secure the lead roles in the latest script, there are plenty of others seeking to grasp the headlines as they lick their wounds from below-par World Cup efforts. With the competition sure to endorse typically flat pitches and small grounds, here are five who may banish their poor form, and enjoy a resurgence at the IPL extravaganza.

#5 Quinton de Kock (Delhi Daredevils)

One of South Africa’s freshest young talents, Quinton de Kock flattered to deceive in the World Cup despite participating in all eight of his country’s matches. Aside from an unbeaten 78 which aided the Proteas’ chase of 134 to defeat Sri Lanka in the quarter-finals, the 22-year-old accumulated a puny 67 from his seven other outings – only twice reaching double figures.

Yet albeit bruised, de Kock’s other international experience, particularly in the limited-over formats, suggests he could be a valuable asset for a Delhi Daredevils unit which will see him accompanied by compatriots Imran Tahir, Albie Morkel and captain Jean-Paul Duminy. A wicket-keeper as well as an opener, he has a strong case for being afforded plenty of game time, and as a T20 average of 33 at a strike-rate in excess of 130 indicates, he is capable of getting his franchise off to flying starts.

With a necessity to cement himself in his country’s future plans, the IPL offers de Kock the chance to do just that. He is far from the finished article but still, a man with his skillset is due runs and a watchful eye should be kept on him throughout the event.