IPL 2024: Ten players who played for only 1 IPL franchise

Explore the exclusive club of cricketers who remained loyal to a single IPL franchise throughout their careers. In this unique listicle, delve into the stories of ten players who stayed committed to one team, becoming synonymous with its identity. From their initial breakthroughs to unforgettable moments on the field, witness the unwavering bond between these players and their respective franchises.

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Discover the rare loyalty and enduring impact that these cricketing stalwarts brought to their teams, leaving an indelible mark in the history of the Indian Premier League. Here are the top 10 players who represented only one franchise.

Mitchell McClenaghan, Mumbai Indians

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Mitchell McClenaghan, the New Zealand cricketer, has remained a steadfast presence in the Indian Premier League, exclusively representing the Mumbai franchise. Over his IPL career spanning 56 matches, McClenaghan showcased his bowling prowess by claiming 71 wickets at an impressive average of 25.39. With a notable best individual figure of 4/21, his unwavering commitment to the Mumbai team has solidified his status as a key player within the franchise.

Lasith Malinga, Mumbai Indians

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Lasith Malinga has been an unwavering force for the Mumbai Indians in the IPL since 2008, emerging as their most prolific bowler with a remarkable record in wicket-taking. Throughout his illustrious career, Malinga's loyalty has been steadfast, having exclusively represented the Mumbai Indians. Despite retiring from T20 franchise cricket in January 2021, Malinga's legacy endures as a testament to his enduring commitment to a single IPL team.

Jasprit Bumrah, Mumbai Indians

Jasprit Bumrah's journey in the IPL has been synonymous with the Mumbai Indians. Over six seasons, he evolved from a promising young fast bowler to a key T20 player. The Mumbai Indians' consistent investment in Bumrah reflects his pivotal role and unwavering commitment. His remarkable growth and resilience have made him an integral part of the team's success, ensuring his continued association with the franchise in future seasons.

Kieron Pollard, Mumbai Indians

Kieron Pollard's unwavering loyalty to the Mumbai Indians has stood strong since 2010. A vital force for the team, he has propelled them to numerous victories. Despite a challenging 2018 season where his performance fell short, Pollard's steadfast commitment to the men in blue remains intact, exemplifying a rare and enduring association in the dynamic landscape of the IPL.

Sunil Narine, Kolkata Knight Riders

Since securing his inaugural IPL contract in 2012, Sunil Narine has remained a stalwart of the Kolkata Knight Riders. A key player in the team's triumphs under Gautam Gambhir in 2012 and 2014, Narine has consistently been a wicket-taking force, sharing the sixth spot for the highest wicket-takers in IPL history. The Windies spinner's unwavering commitment to the Knight Riders has defined his enduring impact within the league, marking him as one of the rare players to have represented only one IPL team.

Virat Kohli, Royal Challengers Bangalore

Virat Kohli's unwavering loyalty to the Royal Challengers Bangalore (RCB) in the IPL has made him their ultimate asset. Since emerging as a rising star in 2008, Kohli has transformed into one of the contemporary era's greatest batters. Throughout the seasons, he has been the heartbeat of RCB, winning the hearts of fans at the Chinnaswamy Stadium. Kohli's bat has scripted numerous records, a testament to his dominance, exemplifying a lesson in loyalty and excellence by playing solely for RCB since the inaugural IPL season.

Shane Warne, Rajasthan Royals

Shane Warne's exclusive IPL journey centred around the Rajasthan Royals. Leading the underdog team in the inaugural season, the Australian maestro, both captain and coach, defied expectations. His spin brilliance and talent scouting defined his impactful tenure. Warne's loyalty remained unwavering as he continued with the Royals for three more seasons, concluding his illustrious IPL playing career in 2011.

Shaun Marsh, Kings XI Punjab

Shaun Marsh's IPL journey is synonymous with loyalty. Acquired at a fair price in the inaugural auction, the Australian southpaw's stellar batting skills propelled his team to the 2008 semifinals. Winning the Orange Cap that year solidified his place with KXIP for several seasons. Despite challenging decisions in 2018, Marsh remained with the franchise. However, the recent auctions saw no takers for the seasoned left-hander, marking the end of his exclusive association with a single IPL team.

Sachin Tendulkar, Mumbai Indians

Sachin Tendulkar, a cricketing icon, exclusively represented one IPL team throughout his illustrious career. After spending approximately six years with the Mumbai Indians, the Master Blaster led the team to its first final in 2010 and consistently emerged as the top scorer. Tendulkar's memorable century in the 2011 edition further solidified his iconic status, showcasing unwavering loyalty to the Mumbai Indians and leaving an indelible mark on the IPL.

Rishabh Pant, Delhi Capitals

Rishabh Pant has been a stalwart for the Delhi Capitals, having played all of his 92 IPL matches for the team since his debut in 2012. Accumulating over 2500 runs and formerly captaining the side, Pant's impressive track record includes 115 fifty-plus scores in nearly 2500 IPL innings. Following a remarkable international performance, the talented cricketer aims to extend his success with the Delhi Capitals in the upcoming IPL round, showcasing his unwavering commitment to the franchise.