For Afghanistan all-rounder Gulbadin Naib, the Indian Premier League (IPL) was more than just another league; it was a life-changing experience. Speaking on the sidelines of the ILT20 2025/26 season, where he represents Dubai Capitals, Naib opened up about his IPL experience and his desire for another contract in the league as he enters the mini-auction for the 2026 season at a base price of INR 1 crore. He also highlighted how T20 leagues like the IPL and ILT20 have been crucial for Afghanistan in preparing for multi-nation tournaments.
Naib's IPL journey began after an impressive T20I series against India in January 2024, where he scored back-to-back fifties. He was informed that an IPL contract was likely, although he found it hard to believe, as the auction had already taken place. However, a few weeks into the IPL season, he received the call he had long awaited. Naib joined Delhi Capitals as a replacement for Mitchell Marsh, entering a dressing room that included Rishabh Pant, Ricky Ponting, David Warner, and Axar Patel.
The experience had a lasting impact on him, from late-night cricket conversations with Pant to learning from legends like Ponting and Sourav Ganguly. Naib played only two matches for Delhi and was released at the end of the season. However, he carried the lessons he learned into the T20 World Cup that year, where Afghanistan secured their first-ever semifinal qualification in an ICC tournament.
Naib fondly recalls becoming close to Pant, Axar Patel, Ishant Sharma, and Yash Dhull during his time with Delhi Capitals. He spent a lot of time with Pant and Axar, often in Pant's room, discussing cricket. Naib wanted to learn as much as possible, especially from Pant, and cherishes those memories. He believes that any player who gets a platform as big as the IPL should always look to learn. He noted the presence of Ponting and Sourav Ganguly and mentioned that Pant consistently encouraged the younger players to learn from the IPL.
Gulbadin emphasized that the IPL is a dream platform for cricketers, providing valuable experience and exposure that benefits Afghanistan's performance. Eleven players from Afghanistan participated in the IPL that season, which Naib believes contributed to their success in reaching the T20 World Cup semifinal. Rashid Khan, Mujeeb Ur Rahman, Mohammad Nabi, Rahmanullah Gurbaz, and Noor Khan are other notable Afghan players who have featured in the IPL. These players share their experiences with the team, which gives Afghanistan a massive advantage.
Looking back, Naib remembers being told he might be selected for the IPL after performing well in the series against India. Despite some hope, he didn't fully believe it until he received the actual call. Playing in the IPL is a dream for every player, and the confidence he gained from the experience significantly improved his game.
The IPL's influence extends beyond individual players, with head coach Jonathan Trott noting that the league and other franchise tournaments have greatly contributed to the growth of Afghanistan cricket. Trott has observed positive changes in players returning from these leagues.
As Gulbadin Naib looks forward to the IPL 2026 auction, his story exemplifies how the league has not only transformed individual careers but has also played a vital role in the development of Afghanistan cricket on the global stage.
