5 Cricketers who are massively loved by fans across the IPL despite different allegiances

Cricket is called a Gentleman’s sport for a reason as the sport teaches the values and virtues of sportsmanship and team spirit. There are certain players who have been deeply respected and loved by the fans of the game despite their loyalty to other country. Players like Don Bradman, Sachin Tendulkar, and Sir Richard Hadlee are some of the players who come to mind when we speak about the most loved and respected figure by fans across the cricketing world. IPL too has seen some players who are loved and have a different stature in the eyes of the fans despite them representing possibly their most hated franchise. Here we look at five such cricketers who are widely loved by the fans across the IPL.

AB De Villiers – RCB

The 37 year old South African is one of the best batsmen in the sport today; although he has bid his goodbye to the international circuit nearly three years ago, the mere sight of ABD walking out wearing the number 17 for RCB gives even the opposing fans Goosebumps. The former South African skipper was wildly cheered by the Bangalore crowd in 2015 when he played his 100^th test for his country of which he made a mention in his book.

Bhuvneshwar Kumar – SRH

The 31 year old Indian swing bowler might be having a tough time with his injuries but on his day there is no better sight to watch as a fit and firing Bhuvneshwar Kumar can make the opposition batsmen swing to his tunes with the new ball which talks the language the lanky fast bowlers wants it to. Bhuvi as he is fondly called by the fans is a player loved not only for his bowling but also his never says die spirit and his way of playing the game of cricket in the right spirit.

Kane Williamson – SRH

The New Zealand skipper has been part of the IPL for a few years now and has given a good indication cricket can be played with good spirit while leading the black caps. One of the most naturally gifted batsmen; Williamson has regaled the Indian crowds with his sumptuous batting and timing and in fact is one of the most loved and respected opposition batsmen in India. Williamson won the love and respect of the Indian fans when he played a huge role in guiding SRH to the IPL 2018 final with his grit and leadership skills.

Ajinkya Rahane – Delhi Capitals

The Indian middle order batsman who led India to a famous triumph over Australia recently is a gentleman cricketer as evident with his gesture of presenting Nathan Lyon a signed Indian Jersey and declining to cut the Kangaroo cake. Rahane is one of the most pleasing batsmen going around in the world today and no matter where he plays Ajju as he is fondly called is an amazing batsman and a gentleman cricketer.

Jasprit Bumrah – Mumbai Indians

The 27 year old right arm fast Indian bowler is a cornerstone for Mumbai Indians for the last few years. Bumrah who is known for his fast bowling and deadly Yorkers can be always found with a smile on his face which has endeared him to all the fans no matter which IPL team they root for but they always have a special place in their heart for their beloved BOOM.