Farveez Maharoof: IPL Experience Was Invaluable, Played Crucial Role For Delhi Daredevils

IPL has done a world of good for players across the globe. Former Sri Lanka fast-bowling all-rounder Farveez Maharoof too yielded his benefits from the tournament. An upright, open-chested action, developed over the years, with focus on accuracy over pace — Farveez Maharoof — picked up 15 wickets in the inaugural edition for the erstwhile Delhi Daredevils (now Delhi Captials).

The campaign for Delhi Daredevils in IPL 2008 came to an end in the semi-finals against eventual champions Rajasthan Royals. Maharoof had contributed to the fore in the match, picking up a three-wicket haul, but it was not enough to stop the Jaipur franchise from posting a big total. The Sri Lankan was the core for the Delhi franchise in the next two editions and by his own admission those were ‘the best years for him’.

Farveez Maharoof: Three years I spent in Delhi, best three years of my life

Farveez Maharoof, out-of-favour from national team, was bought by the Delhi franchise for $225,000 in the inaugural edition. He left his mark early in the tournament with his economical spells. IPL was touted to be a huge success in franchise cricket but in the initial years not many had a clear idea of how big it could be. For Maharoof, the experience at IPL was invaluable and it left a good mark on his career.

“I think the first three years I played it was magnificent for Delhi. Three years I spent in Delhi, best three years of my life, the cricket level was brilliant and also I played along side some of the big names around the world from India, Pakistan, South Africa, Australia,” Farveez Maharoof told CricketAddictor in an exclusive interview.

“I mean that experience was invaluable, specially IPL started no one knew how big or good it will be but straight away from the 1st game it became a big brand and here it is now. I’m very happy to say that I played a crucial role for Delhi, it only became good for my career going forward,” he added.

The Colombo all-rounder retired with 135 ODI wickets, 25 in Tests and seven T20I wickets with experiences in country cricket and the IPL, besides representing his national team in marquee tournaments.