The first edition of the cash-rich IPL took place in 2008 and players from all around the world were bought by the 8 teams competing for the title. All the biggest stars were bought by different franchises. Rajasthan Royals were crowned the Champions of the inaugural season by downing Chennai Super Kings. Rajasthan were led by the great Shane Warne whereas Chennai were captained by MS Dhoni.?
In the first edition Pakistani players featured in many franchises. After that solitary season, they never played in the subsequent years. While numerous players still had their contracts they were advised not to play in India by the PCB, after the 26/11 Mumbai terrorist attacks and the franchises were reluctant to pick up players from across the border fearing backlash from the public.
Here are some of the players from the first edition and their life later on:?
Asnodkar played for the Rajasthan Royals in the first edition of IPL. He was a promising young opener but could not sustain his form and was dropped from the team after the second season. After IPL 1, Asnodkar continued to play domestic cricket in India, representing teams like Goa and Rajasthan. However, he was not able to break into the national team and has not played any international cricket. Asnodkar is currently playing in the BPL.
Gony played for the Chennai Super Kings in IPL 1. He was a key player for the team, picking up 17 wickets in 16 matches. After IPL 1, Gony continued to play domestic cricket in India and was a regular member of the Punjab team in the Ranji Trophy. However, he could not replicate his IPL success in domestic cricket and struggled with injuries. Gony announced his retirement from all forms of cricket in 2020.
Akhtar played for the Kolkata Knight Riders in IPL 1. He was one of the most expensive players in the tournament and was expected to lead the team's bowling attack. However, he could only play a few matches due to injuries and was dropped from the team. After IPL 1, Akhtar continued to play international cricket for Pakistan for a few years before retiring in 2011. He has since worked as a commentator and analyst for various broadcasters.
Hafeez played for the Kolkata Knight Riders in IPL 1. He was a part-time spinner and an opening batsman for the team. After IPL 1, Hafeez continued to play international cricket for Pakistan and became one of the team's most reliable all-rounders. He has also played domestic cricket in various T20 leagues around the world, including the Caribbean Premier League, the Bangladesh Premier League, and the Pakistan Super League. Hafeez retired from international cricket in 2022.
Butt played for the Kolkata Knight Riders in IPL 1. He was the team's captain but could not lead them to success in the tournament. After IPL 1, Butt continued to play international cricket for Pakistan and even became the captain of the team. However, his career was cut short when he was banned for five years for his involvement in the spot-fixing scandal during Pakistan's tour of England in 2010. Butt has since returned to domestic cricket in Pakistan but has not played international cricket.
Tanvir played for the Rajasthan Royals in IPL 1. He was the leading wicket-taker in the tournament and played a key role in the team's title win as he was the purple cap winner. After IPL 1, Tanvir continued to play international cricket for Pakistan and became a regular member of the team's T20 squad. He has also played domestic cricket in various T20 leagues around the world, including the Caribbean Premier League, the Bangladesh Premier League, and the Pakistan Super League. Tanvir recently announced his retirement from cricket.?