In a high-intensity and tightly packed tournament like the Indian Premier League (IPL), injuries, sudden withdrawals, and unexpected challenges are part of the game. As franchises rush to adjust their squads, fate often has a surprising way of stepping in. The stories of the Most Impactful Last-Minute Replacements in IPL history show how players signed at the eleventh hour have repeatedly emerged as game-changers and key contributors to their teams.
Some shattered records, others led their teams to titles, and a few redefined how we perceive the auction and replacement strategies. Here’s a look at five of the most influential last-minute replacements in IPL history — highlighted through their statistics, standout performances, and the crucial roles they played within their franchises.
5. Alzarri Joseph – Mumbai Indians (2019)
- Replaced: Adam Milne (ruled out due to heel injury)
- Signed: Early April 2019, just before MI’s fourth game
- Debut Match: April 6, 2019 vs Sunrisers Hyderabad at Hyderabad
Most Impactful Last-Minute Replacements in IPL
Alzarri Joseph wasn’t originally in Mumbai Indians’ scheme of things, but the team urgently required an overseas pace option. Seizing the opportunity on debut, he tore through the Sunrisers Hyderabad lineup with a sensational bowling performance.
- Figures: 3.4–1–12–6
- Best bowling figures in IPL history
- Dismissed David Warner and Vijay Shankar among others
- SRH bowled out for 96 while chasing just 137
Impact:
Despite featuring in just three matches before an injury cut his season short, that one performance etched his name in IPL history. His figures remain the best ever recorded in the league, instantly propelling Joseph into the global T20 spotlight.
4. Mitchell McClenaghan – Mumbai Indians (2015)
- Replaced: Corey Anderson (ruled out mid-season with injury)
- Signed: During league stage of IPL 2015
Most Impactful Last-Minute Replacements in IPL
McClenaghan was recognized for his fiery pace but found himself without a team in 2015. Mumbai Indians brought him in during the middle of the season, and he seamlessly joined the playing XI alongside Lasith Malinga and Jasprit Bumrah.
- Wickets: 14 wickets in 10 games
- Bowled crucial overs at the death
- Known for his spell vs CSK (3/25 in Qualifier 1)
Impact:
He played a pivotal part in Mumbai’s 2015 title victory, and went on to be a loyal contributor for the team in subsequent seasons. His relentless energy and aggressive style made him a fan favourite.
3. Imran Tahir – Chennai Super Kings (2019)
- Replaced: Lungi Ngidi (suffered a side strain before tournament)
- Signed: Already in CSK squad, but not first-choice till Ngidi ruled out
Most Impactful Last-Minute Replacements in IPL
CSK was in search of an overseas bowling option, and despite being 40 years old, Tahir quickly became Dhoni’s trusted bowler.
- Wickets in 2019: 26 in 17 matches
- Purple Cap winner
- Played key roles in defending low totals
- Best: 4/27 vs Delhi Capitals
Impact:
He played a key role in helping CSK reach the finals, proving that age is merely a number. His standout performance in that one dominant season earned him a place in the squad for multiple years.
2. Doug Bollinger – Chennai Super Kings (2010)
- Replaced: Jacob Oram (injured before IPL 2010)
- Signed: After the season started
Most Impactful Last-Minute Replacements in IPL
CSK’s pace attack was underperforming, but Bollinger’s debut against Rajasthan Royals turned the tide.
- Figures: 4-0-15-2 (including Yusuf Pathan)
- Helped restrict RR in a 200+ game
- Took 12 wickets in just 8 matches
Impact:
He revitalized CSK’s bowling unit and played a vital role in securing their maiden IPL title in 2010. His impact earned him a spot in the 2011 squad, where he contributed once again to their successful title defense.
1. David Miller – Gujarat Titans (2022)
- Replaced: Jason Roy (pulled out due to bio-bubble fatigue)
- Signed: As a stop-gap by a debutant team
Most Impactful Last-Minute Replacements in IPL
David Miller was considered to be past his best after a disappointing stint with Rajasthan Royals. But at Gujarat Titans:
- Runs: 481
- Average: 68.71
- Match-winning 94* off 51 vs RR in Qualifier 1
- Helped GT win the title in their debut season
Impact:
His clutch finishing turned GT into a dominant force while chasing, serving as a perfect example of reviving a career after starting out as a backup pick.
Conclusion
While scouting and strategy are crucial in the IPL, knowing who to call when Plan A falls through is just as vital. These ten players prove that replacements aren’t just last-minute fixes — they’re often the hidden driving force behind successful campaigns. Whether it’s due to injury, a sudden exit, or the need for a fresh spark, replacements show that in the IPL, opportunity can knock at any moment — and leave a lasting legacy.
Read More: Top 10 Highest Wicket-Takers in a Single IPL Season
Q1: What is meant by a “last-minute replacement” in the IPL?
A: A last-minute replacement refers to a player who is signed by an IPL team during or just before the season due to injuries, withdrawals, or unavailability of other players. These signings are often done urgently to fill critical gaps in the squad.
Q2: Has any last-minute replacement set records in the IPL?
A: Yes, Alzarri Joseph holds the record for the best bowling figures in IPL history (6/12), achieved on his debut as a replacement player for Mumbai Indians.
Q3: Are these players usually retained after their first season?
A: Often, yes. Many of these players perform so well that they are retained for multiple seasons, becoming key members of their squads.