The 2025 Indian Premier League (IPL) season has seen some high-profile foreign players underperforming, causing concern among fans and experts alike. Several of these players have failed to live up to expectations, and their struggles have prompted criticism from former cricketing legends, including Virender Sehwag. Here’s a closer look at some of the biggest foreign player disappointments this season:
Glenn Maxwell – A Shadow of His Former Self
Australian all-rounder Glenn Maxwell has faced significant criticism this season. In six matches, Maxwell has managed just 41 runs at an average of 8.20 and a strike rate of 100, which has led to his omission from the Punjab Kings’ playing XI. Sehwag, known for his blunt assessments, slammed Maxwell for lacking the hunger to perform.
He accused the Australian of treating the IPL like a holiday, saying, “They just come here for a holiday and leave after spending their holiday. There’s no visible desire to fight for the team.” Sehwag suggested that Maxwell’s focus seemed to be more on enjoying his time in India rather than putting in the effort to improve his game and contribute to the team’s success.
Liam Livingstone – Yet to Shine
England’s Liam Livingstone has also failed to make an impact this season. With just 87 runs in seven matches at an average of 17.40, his performance has been disappointing. The Englishman has been relegated to the bench for some games, and his lack of form has raised concerns. Like Maxwell, Livingstone has been criticized for his failure to step up when it matters.
Jofra Archer – Struggling with Consistency
Jofra Archer’s return to the IPL has not been as impactful as anticipated. The England pacer gave away a record-breaking 76 runs from four wicketless overs in a match against Rajasthan Royals. Though Archer showed some improvement in subsequent games, his struggles in the early stages of the season have cast doubt on his fitness and form, and many are questioning if he can return to his best.
Sam Curran – Not Living Up to Expectations
Sam Curran, who was bought for ₹18.5 crore by Punjab Kings, has struggled to justify his hefty price tag. Despite his potential, the English all-rounder’s performances have been lackluster, leaving many to wonder if the investment was wise.
Cameron Green – A Move That Hasn’t Paid Off
After a solid stint with Mumbai Indians, Cameron Green’s transition to Royal Challengers Bangalore has not produced the desired results. His performances have been underwhelming, leaving RCB fans frustrated with his lack of contribution in crucial matches.
Sehwag’s Criticism of Foreign Players
Former India captain Virender Sehwag’s criticism has focused heavily on foreign players in the IPL, particularly those who have not shown the same level of commitment or drive to win. Sehwag remarked that many foreign stars lack the “hunger” to perform and that their focus is more on enjoying themselves in India than on competing at the highest level.
He pointed to players like David Warner and AB de Villiers as examples of foreign players who always put their team first, saying, “David Warner, AB de Villiers, and Glenn McGrath used to tell me, ‘I will win games for you, play me.’ I used to be in a fix about whom to play and whom to drop.” Sehwag’s sharp criticism has put the spotlight on foreign players who are perceived to be underperforming or not living up to their potential in the IPL.
The Growing Concern
The underperformance of these foreign players has sparked debates about their commitment to the IPL. With the tournament entering its later stages, their teams are hoping for a change in fortunes. Whether these players can turn things around remains to be seen, but their performances will undoubtedly play a pivotal role in the direction of their teams’ campaigns.
The IPL, known for its intense competition, could see a shift in how foreign players are scouted and selected in future seasons if such performances continue.