The Indian Premier League (IPL) has witnessed some of the most dangerous batters in the history of T20 cricket. Over the years, several players have dominated bowlers with their fearless approach and match-winning performances. Former Indian all-rounder Irfan Pathan recently shared his thoughts on two batters he found most difficult to bowl against in the IPL.
Irfan Pathan picks two most dangerous batters in IPL
While speaking on his YouTube channel, Pathan named South African legend AB de Villiers and former Indian captain MS Dhoni as the two most dangerous batters in IPL history.
“I always found it difficult to bowl against AB. He is the most dangerous batsman in the world. Bowling against him was no less than a challenge for me,” Pathan stated.
Pathan highlighted De Villiers’ ability to play all kinds of shots and score runs against even the best deliveries. He added: “AB used to hit all kinds of shots. He was successful in sending the ball across the boundary line even on a good ball. It was very difficult to maintain the length against him.”
De Villiers, who played 184 IPL matches, amassed 5,162 runs at an impressive strike rate. He also registered three centuries in the tournament, making him one of the most destructive batters in IPL history.
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The ultimate finisher
Apart from de Villiers, Pathan also named Dhoni as one of the toughest batters to bowl against. Pathan reckoned he has not seen a finisher like the former Indian captain.
“I had not seen a finisher like him. It was difficult for me to bowl against him as well. Mahi used to hit big shots, and you could not escape against him. According to me, these two were the most difficult batsmen for me,” Pathan added further.
Dhoni, known for his calmness and power-hitting abilities, has scored 5,289 runs in 267 IPL matches, including 24 half-centuries. His ability to finish games under pressure has made him a nightmare for bowlers.
