BBL in the IPL 1st XI

1. Chris Gayle

Best performance: 128 not out v Delhi Daredevils at Delhi

How can you not have Chris Gayle in any T20 line-up? By far the batsman of the tournament, Gayle topped the runs list with an incredible 733 at 61.08 which featured seven fifties and that amazing hundred against Delhi. Unlucky to miss out on Player of the Series, Gayle showed why he is simply the best. Insane stuff.

2. Brendan McCullum

Best performance: 56 v Delhi Daredevils at Delhi

McCullum will rue his misfortune this season. He only passed 50 once but made a lot of good starts, consistently reaching 30-45 before finding a new ways to get out. While his batting might not have been up to scratch, his wicketkeeping most certainly was, snaring 14 dismissals, including six stumped – the most by any gloveman throughout the tournament.

3. Shane Watson

Best performance: 90 not out v Pune Warriors at Pune

Rajasthan Royals welcomed the Australian vice-captain with open arms halfway through the season and the big man didn’t disappoint, carving out some impressive scores and giving the Royals a slim playoff hope. His all-round skills were on display as was his punishing power, with his amazing 90 not out the jewel in his Royal crown this season.

4. Cameron White

Best performance: 78 v Pune Warriors at Pune

What a difference a couple of months, a new team and a different country make. Cameron White left Australia’s shores as the down-and-out former national T20 captain who couldn’t buy a friend in the media and will return as one of the batsmen of the IPL. His five fifties were some of the best of his career. Consistency is still an issue but at least he’s back making big runs.

5. David Hussey ©

Best performance: 65 not out v Deccan Chargers at Chandigarh

If you can take one positive out of Adam Gilchrist’s injury this year it’s that it gave David Hussey a chance to lead from the front – which he did with flying colours. Hussey’s leadership grew to new heights when handed the captaincy this season, as did his batting prowess. His 65 not out was a true captain’s knock, guiding his team from the precipice of defeat to a thrilling final over victory.

6. Steve Smith

Best performance: 34 not out v Delhi Daredevils at Delhi

For Steve Smith the IPL was just a continuation of good form from the Sydney Sixers to New South Wales to finally Pune Warriors. Smith played every game for Pune, underlying how well his team respects him in T20 contests. Captain Sourav Ganguly didn’t use Smith’s leg-spin during the season, but his quick-fire batting made for some entertaining cameos. 

7. Dwayne Bravo

Best performance: 48 & 2-18 v Kings XI Punjab at Dharamsala

Success just seems to follow Dwayne Bravo. After starring for the Sydney Sixers in the KFC T20 Big Bash League, Bravo has entertained millions with his destructive bowling, dashing batting and dynamic fielding. His effort against Punjab sums up the man. He was in everything that night. His charisma was so potent that even the opposition fans were cheering for him!

8. Johan Botha

Best performance: 2-21 & 14 not out v Kings XI Punjab at Chandigarh

Adelaide Striker Johan Botha sparkled for the Rajasthan Royals in what turned out to be a disappointing season. Botha, Rahul Dravid and later Shane Watson formed the brain trust of the Royals who at times seemed like potential title contenders. His all-round skills were put to the test on flat wickets where his guile and patience were supremely tested.

9. Ryan Harris

Best performance: 4-34 v Rajasthan Royals at Chandigarh

You know exactly what you are going to get with Ryan Harris every time he runs in: 110%. Harris bowls every ball like it’s his last, determined to win the age-old contest between bat and ball. His performances for Punjab we’re statistically not ideal, but cricket is more than a game of numbers and his displays against Rajasthan and Delhi (2-19) prove that point.

10. Brad Hogg

Best performance: 2-39 v Royal Challengers Bangalore at Jaipur

Being the number one spinner in any team is a daunting prospect. If you’re replacing Shane Warne, well, that is horrifying. But don’t worry, Brad left the tournament with his head held high. He even borrowed a trick out of Warnie’s book, predicting a wicket when miked up. And what a wicket it was! His googly mesmerized Chris Gayle, trapping him dead in front.

11. Ben Hilfenhaus

Best performance: 2-8 v Rajasthan Royals at Jaipur

A late starter for Chennai Super Kings, Hilfenhaus was miserly for the men in yellow, going for less than seven runs per over. He was the second highest wicket-taker for Chennai behind Dwayne Bravo, who took one more wicket than Ben in 10 extra games. His performance here and for Hobart Hurricanes must have him in contention for the World T20 later this year.