'IPL is the Biggest League on the Planet, Much Better Than PSL': Sikandar Raza

Veteran Zimbabwe all-rounder Sikandar Raza has made a sensational remark on the stature of the Indian Premier League (IPL), calling it the ‘best’ and the ‘biggest T20 league’ on the planet. The insurgence of other franchise cricket tournaments across the globe, namely the Pakistan Super League (PSL), the Lankan Premier League (LPL), the Caribbean Premier League (CPL), UAE’s ILT20 and Australia’s Big Bash League (BBL), has led to a debate that which league is the best. The comparisons are mostly drawn between the IPL and the PSL, given the age-old rivalry between the two neighbouring countries.

However, Raza, who plays both tournaments as a foreigner, has given a straight-forward verdict. In an exclusive conversation with SportsNow, Raza said the availability of world-class players and the crowd support at different venues across the country makes IPL ‘really special’.

“I just think that the availability of all the players for one tournament makes IPL really special. In most of the matches we play, the crowd comes and supports their teams. That’s something that’s really different in IPL. The only other league when it comes to crowds that comes close to IPL is PSL. So, I think IPL definitely stands out with a couple of factors, yes,” Raza stated.

“IPL is by far the best league when it comes to PSL also. Like, it is much better than PSL. That’s what I’m trying to say. Yeah, I’m not a big fan of comparisons. But yes, it is. I think IPL is the biggest league on the planet,” he added.

Raza, who was signed by Punjab Kings last year, stated that he feels blessed to be playing IPL. Recalling his wonderful experience in the last edition, the 37-year-old said,

“IPL is such a big and global event that I am very grateful and blessed that Punjab picked me. And I don’t think I can ever repay their faith. I mean, they were the only team that raised the baton on the auction day.

“So, if they hadn’t done that, I don’t think I would have been part of IPL last year, let alone this year. So, no, man. Being part of the IPL is a wonderful experience. And I am very grateful and humbled by the fact that Punjab has picked me,” Raza said.

Raza is currently plying trade with the David Warner-led Dubai Capitals at the ILT20 in UAE and will move to PSL before joining the PBKS for the IPL 2024.