'It Feels Like a Blink': Manish Pandey Reflects on 19 Years in IPL
Synopsis
Manish Pandey, an IPL veteran, shares his nostalgic reflections on his 19-year journey in the league, highlighting his key moments and the tournament's evolution. His insights reveal the growth of IPL and its impact on cricket.
Key Takeaways
Manish Pandey has played in every IPL season since 2008.
He will represent Kolkata Knight Riders in IPL 2026.
Pandey was the first Indian to score a century in the IPL.
The tournament has evolved significantly in terms of match dynamics.
IPL is crucial for nurturing young cricketing talent.
New Delhi, March 29 (NationPress) Seasoned right-handed batsman Manish Pandey, one of just four players to participate in every season of the Indian Premier League (IPL) since its launch in 2008, expressed that his 19-year journey feels like it has flown by.
Pandey is set to play for the three-time champions Kolkata Knight Riders (KKR) in IPL 2026, kicking off their season against the five-time champions Mumbai Indians (MI) at the Wankhede Stadium. Over the course of 174 IPL matches, he has accumulated 3,942 runs with a strike rate of 121.52.
“This journey has been wonderful for me - 19 years and now entering the 19th year. I began with MI in the inaugural year following the U19 World Cup. It’s a cherished memory, but honestly, it feels as if it has all passed in a moment. Watching from 2008 to now, 2026, is surreal,” said Pandey.
“Overall, it’s been a fantastic experience, and I’m thrilled to be among the few who have participated in every IPL season, striving to give my best to the game. It’s all about my passion and love for cricket,” he remarked in a video released by IPL on Sunday.
Pandey made history as the first Indian to score a century in the IPL back in 2009 and reminisced about the tournament’s evolution and its impact on his career. “Absolutely. We were just young, 18-19 year olds, discovering the game and ourselves. In the second season, I scored a hundred in South Africa during IPL 2009 for RCB, and it was an incredible feeling.”
“At that time, I never anticipated that I would open the innings and have the opportunity to score those runs, which significantly aided my career. Being the first Indian to achieve a hundred at such a young age is a memory I cherish. However, the record now belongs to someone else,” he added.
“Being part of that experience is truly remarkable. This game has imparted invaluable lessons. The tournament has taught us a lot, and we continue to evolve with it. The dynamics were different when we began,” he continued.
“We were all still navigating the tournament's complexities and ourselves. The IPL has come a long way, growing immensely over these 19 years, and I’m confident it will continue to thrive for years to come. This growth benefits not only the players but also the sponsors, fans, and the immense joy this tournament has brought to countless cricket enthusiasts,” he elaborated.
Pandey emphasized that the IPL has become one of the most significant tournaments in the cricketing landscape, serving as a platform for emerging young talent. “Back then, even a score of 160 was considered good, and 140 was often defendable. Today, the game's pace has transformed dramatically, with numerous high-scoring matches. The variety of bowlers and techniques has expanded significantly.”
“It has truly evolved, and I’m delighted to see it at the forefront of cricket today. The IPL is now one of the premier tournaments globally. It has tested many players, whether they participated for a year or for a longer duration, contributing to cricket's overall growth. As I mentioned, it is central to the development of talent,” he noted.
“From a player's perspective, the IPL has elevated the game, demanding a higher caliber of talent. It has played a crucial role in shaping players, and I’m pleased to witness this evolution. We constantly aspire to play for India; it has always been our dream,” he expressed.
“Tournaments like these are crucial for aspiring to represent India. The IPL is a showcase that selectors closely monitor. This journey has had its pressures, as performing is essential to remain relevant in this tournament, and thankfully, I’ve been able to do so for quite some time,” he remarked.
Pandey concluded by reflecting on his vital performance in the 2014 final for KKR, which enabled him to earn a spot in the Indian team, where he played in 29 ODIs and 39 T20Is. “This platform has undeniably provided me the opportunity to represent India. I vividly remember my crucial knock in the 2014 finals for KKR; scoring those 95 runs was transformative for me. It significantly impacted my career, and playing for India afterward was incredibly special. The IPL has been remarkably supportive, and I enjoy being part of this competitive environment while cherishing the game,” he said.
Point of View
Manish Pandey articulates the rapid passage of time over his 19-year IPL career, emphasizing the tournament's significance in nurturing talent and evolving the game. His perspective underlines the IPL's role as a cornerstone in modern cricket, appealing to both players and fans alike.
NationPress
7 Jul 2026
Frequently Asked Questions
How many seasons has Manish Pandey played in the IPL?
Manish Pandey has played in all 19 seasons of the IPL since its inception in 2008.
Which team will Manish Pandey play for in IPL 2026?
Manish Pandey will be playing for Kolkata Knight Riders (KKR) in IPL 2026.
What was significant about Pandey's performance in IPL 2009?
He became the first Indian to score a century in the IPL during the 2009 season.
How has the IPL evolved over the years according to Pandey?
Pandey notes that the pace of the game has increased, with higher scores and more varied bowling techniques compared to earlier seasons.
What impact has the IPL had on Pandey’s career?
The IPL has provided Pandey with opportunities to showcase his talent, ultimately leading to his selection for the Indian national team.
