The IPL (Indian Premier League) is the biggest T20 league in the world, players from all countries participate in the league and have gained immense popularity over the years. However, Pakistan players, who were part of only the first season, are not allowed to participate. The players were banned from playing in the league following the 26/11 terrorist attacks in November 2008.
Former Pakistan player Yasir Arafat has revealed that he was offered to play in the 2009 edition by Kolkata Knight Riders owner and actor Shah Rukh Khan offered him a contract.
“I was playing County Cricket for Kent in 2008 where KKR’s scouting team specially came from India and they met me during a match. They revealed that Shah Rukh Khan wants me to play for his side”, he revealed. “Initially, I thought it was a joke as to why Shah Rukh would send somebody to talk regarding the contract. They also handed me a card and took my contact details.”
“Then Mumbai blasts happened and Pakistan players were unable to become part of the competition ever again. It is a matter of luck perhaps that me and other Pakistan players never played any IPL edition”, he further added.
On the career front, Arafat made his international debut in 2000, he has only played three tests, 11 ODIs and 13 T20Is. HE has made a total of 260 international runs and scalped 29 wickets respectively.
