Manish Pandey Reflects on 19-Year IPL Journey as KKR Faces MI
Indian batter Manish Pandey, one of only four players to have participated in every edition of the Indian Premier League since its inception in 2008, has described his remarkable 19-year IPL journey as having "flown by in a flash." Pandey is set to don the Kolkata Knight Riders jersey in IPL 2026, as the three-time champions prepare to take on the five-time winners Mumbai Indians at the iconic Wankhede Stadium.
A Journey Spanning 174 Matches and 3,942 Runs
Across his illustrious IPL career, Pandey has featured in 174 matches, amassing an impressive 3,942 runs at a strike rate of 121.52. In a video released by the IPL on Sunday, Pandey expressed his gratitude and nostalgia for the tournament that has defined his professional life.
"It's been an incredible journey for me – 19 years, and now going into my 19th season. I started with MI in the very first year after the U19 World Cup. That was a special memory, but honestly, it all feels like it just passed in a moment. From 2008 to now, 2026, it’s been a lot," Pandey shared.
He added, "Overall, it’s been a fantastic experience. I’m glad to be among those few players who’ve been part of every IPL, and I always try to do justice to myself and the game. I’m here purely for the passion and love of cricket."
Landmark Moments and Career Highlights
Reflecting on his landmark century for Royal Challengers Bengaluru in 2009, Pandey recalled the youthful exuberance that defined that period. "Absolutely. We were just young, 18-19-year-olds, discovering the game and ourselves. In my second season, I scored a hundred in South Africa for RCB, and it felt amazing. I wasn’t expecting to open the innings and get that opportunity, but it helped me a lot," he said.
Pandey noted that being the first Indian to score an IPL century and the youngest at the time remains a cherished memory, even though the record has since been surpassed by others.
The Evolution of IPL and Cricket Itself
On the tournament's growth over nearly two decades, Pandey observed significant transformations. "This tournament has taught us so much. We were still understanding the dynamics back then. Over 19 years, IPL has evolved massively – for players, sponsors, and fans. The joy it has given to so many is unbelievable. It’s now one of the biggest platforms for young talent to shine," he emphasized.
He also highlighted how the game itself has changed dramatically. "Back then, 160 was a good total, and 140 could be defended. Now, everything is faster, with high-scoring games and new bowling variations. IPL is at the centre of world cricket today, testing players who’ve been here one year or many. It has made the game bigger and helped cricket grow," Pandey explained.
IPL as a Pathway to International Cricket
Pandey underscored the importance of the IPL as a crucial stepping stone to representing the national team. "We always dream of playing for India, and tournaments like IPL are crucial. Selectors watch closely, and performing here is key to staying in the game. I’ve been lucky to do that over time," he stated.
He concluded by recalling his pivotal knock in the 2014 final for KKR, which proved to be a career-defining moment. "That innings of 95 in the final was life-changing. It helped me break into the Indian team, where I went on to play 29 ODIs and 39 T20Is. IPL has been very kind to me, giving me the chance to handle pressure while enjoying the game," Pandey reflected.
As the cricketing world gears up for another thrilling season, Pandey's journey stands as a testament to the enduring legacy and transformative impact of the Indian Premier League on players and the sport of cricket globally.
