The Indian Premier League has given birth to countless stars, yet for some, the journey started and ended on the same night. Let’s take a look at the players who had only one chance to make a mark but never got a second.
Playing one IPL match does not really define a player’s ability. It only shows how unforgiving the league can be. The tournament celebrates instant impact. If you are not part of a team’s perfect plan, you might never return.
1) Brad Haddin
Brad Haddin, who was one of Australia’s most reliable wicketkeepers, played a single IPL match. He represented Kolkata Knight Riders in 2011. The Australian scored a quick 18 off 11 balls. However, with teams restricted to four overseas players, Haddin never fit into the long-term plans.
2) Mashrafe Mortaza
The Bangladeshi pacer played just one game for KKR in 2009, and it became a nightmare. Defending 21 runs in the final over against Deccan Chargers, he was smashed for four consecutive boundaries by Rohit Sharma. That single over sealed his fate. Mortaza’s story shows how one bad night in the IPL can erase years of hard work and reputation.
3) Damien Martyn
Damien Martyn was one of Australia’s most elegant stroke-makers, but his IPL career was over almost before it began. Representing Rajasthan Royals, he played one match and never returned to the field again. His case highlights how timing matters more than talent in T20 leagues. By the time Martyn entered the IPL, the format had already moved toward younger and more explosive players.
4) Younis Khan
Younis Khan, one of Pakistan’s most respected cricketers, was part of Rajasthan Royals’ squad in 2008 but played just once. Younis could never adapt to the fast pace of T20 cricket, since he is known for his temperament and technique in Tests. His short IPL journey shows that even great players sometimes struggle when placed in a different cricketing environment.
5) Abdur Razzak
Abdur Razzak, Bangladesh’s left-arm spinner, had a single appearance for Royal Challengers Bangalore. The franchise had several spin options, and Razzak was sidelined after his debut. It is a reminder that sometimes the problem is not performance but team balance. When conditions do not favour spin, players like Razzak end up as passengers in the dugout.
6) Doug Bracewell
Doug Bracewell from New Zealand had a brief IPL moment that never grew into a career. Despite his ability to swing the ball and bowl with aggression, he found himself out of contention due to the abundance of overseas fast bowlers. His story is another example of how timing and team combination can be a player’s worst enemy.