Australian star opener –Aaron Finch became the first player in the Indian Premier League (IPL) history to play for seven different franchises in the tournament when Kings XI Punjab (KXIP) won the bidding war for a whopping for Rs. 6.2 Crore during the IPL Auction 2018 for his services in the T20 league.
Having played for Melbourne Renegades in the Big Bash League (BBL), Finch –who is one of the finest batsman in the limited overs’ game, feels BBL and IPL are similar T20 tournaments when it comes to pressure, atmosphere and playing in front of a massive crowd. However‘the conditions, more games and more travel in the Indian T20 league’ shows the difference in the two mega T20 events.
The right-hander further said that he is lucky to get chance to play in the IPL, as well as, said he feels comfortable in India, calling it a second home.
Finch told Sportstar, “Obviously, there are more international players available and playing in the IPL, the standard is higher and it’s the ultimate test for a T20 player. Also with the fixturing in Australia, the international fixture overlaps, so we lose some of the Australian players for sections of the BBL.”
Having represented various franchises over the decade in the IPL Finch doesn't feel any discomfort in settling with the fresh bunch. He further stated, “Each time there is a settling in the period, however, I know so many of the players from playing with or against them in the past so it's never too daunting. All teams have been welcoming and you feel part of it very quickly. In regards to preparation, it doesn’t change too much year to year, I just make sure I’m ready and refreshed when I arrive.”
Finch further stated, “Given the amount of time we spend in India and the friendships you develop with your team-mates. India is like a second home in many ways and I love coming back. I’ve been fortunate enough to play for a few of the IPL franchises and as such have lived in various cities so I feel comfortable here and have friends across the country.”
Over the years, Finch has been a vital cog for Australia in the shorter format – 3200 ODI runs and 1206 T20 runs at a combined strike-rate of 120.88 – but he is yet to play Test cricket for the Kangaroos and Victoria batsman said ‘getting a baggy green’ is his ultimate goal.
Finch signed off by saying, “Getting a baggy green remains a goal - it’s something that I have always aspired to achieve and whilst I’m performing for Australia in other formats I would hope that opportunity is still present.”
