And there can be no favourites as such in T20 cricket. Zimbabwe can sink Australia, Netherlands stunned England, they did the improbable by chasing down nearly 200 runs in 14-odd overs against Ireland, Afghanistan humbled the eventual World T20 champions West Indies.
So, what's special in IPL then? You have the universal boss Chris Gayle; Virat Kohli and AB de Villiers hosting the evening show together; Young Indian talents flourish; a Zimbabwean Heath Streak coaches Dale Steyn; one can even find a prospective candidate like Daniel Vettori for the toughest job in the country -- team India coach.
Ryan ten Doeschate - the Netherlands all-rounder - is certainly a familiar name in India, thanks to the IPL and Kolkata Knight Riders.
Amidst so many difficulties, the associate nations have certainly punched above their weight on a lot of occasions, at least in the shortest format.
Every associate skipper has said that their biggest hurdle is lack of opportunities. That they don't get enough match days is a big hindrance to their porgress.
Imagine this. How about the IPL featuring two of the top-ranked associate teams in the world? Why not? People will love the sight of Afghan keeper Mohammad Shehzad unleashing his helicopter shot. Ireland’s Kevin O’Brien could well replicate what he did to England in the 2011 World Cup. There is something about the way Oman, who made their debut in the World T20 2016, go about their cricket.
Definitely, the associate countries can put up a strong fight against the franchisee teams. The Indian board, as it has mentioned, can help develop the sport across the globe through IPL. It doesn't just mean playing matches outside India.
Consider this. Eight IPL teams and two associate teams. It can be a ten-team affair or there can well be a qualifier. How about the wooden spoon holders of the previous IPL taking on the two so-called minnows of World cricket in a qualifying league before the actual tournament? Top two will join the other six.
This will certainly increase the competitiveness of the league as well develop the game as a whole. Ifs and buts are bound to crop up. But why not give it a try?
