Due to political tensions, Pakistani cricketers have not been able to play in the Indian Premier League (IPL) since 2008.
In the first edition of the IPL, former captain Shahid Afridi, Mohammad Hafeez, Umar Gul, Shoaib Akhtar, Misbah-ul-Haq, Kamran Akmal, Shoaib Malik, Salman Butt, and Sohail Tanveer had showcased their skills, but tensions between Pakistan and India have prevented national players from participating in the league.
Former Pakistani captain Shahid Afridi had represented the Deccan Chargers in the IPL, scoring 81 runs in 10 matches. He later went on to represent Peshawar, Karachi, Multan, and Quetta in the Pakistan Super League.
Similarly, Mohammad Hafeez played for Kolkata Knight Riders in the IPL, scoring 64 runs in 9 matches, while also representing Lahore Qalandars in the Pakistan Super League.
Former fast bowler Umar Gul played for Kolkata Knight Riders in the IPL, taking 12 wickets in 6 matches, before representing Multan and Quetta in the Pakistan Super League.
Legendary cricketer Misbah-ul-Haq represented Royal Challengers Bangalore in the IPL, scoring 117 runs in 8 matches, and later represented Islamabad United in the Pakistan Super League.
Kamran Akmal was part of the 2008 champion team Rajasthan Royals, scoring 128 runs in 6 matches, and later representing Peshawar Zalmi in the Pakistan Super League.
Similarly, Sohail Tanveer played for Rajasthan Royals in the IPL and played a vital role in winning the championship, taking 22 wickets in 11 matches, before representing Karachi, Multan, Quetta, and Lahore in the Pakistan Super League.
Former captain Shoaib Malik played for Delhi Daredevils in the IPL, scoring 52 runs in 7 matches, and is the only player who is still part of the Pakistan Super League. He is currently representing Karachi Kings in the ongoing edition.