In 2016, Swapnil Singh’s maiden IPL wicket was MS Dhoni, who was arguably at the peak of his illustrious career. Singh’s promising start with Kings XI Punjab, now known as Punjab Kings, after an impressive season with Baroda in the Syed Mushtaq Ali Trophy, hinted at a bright future in the tournament. However, despite a dream debut, Singh’s IPL career never quite took off. He spent time warming the benches at Mumbai Indians before fading into obscurity.
In 2023, Singh was given another opportunity by Lucknow Super Giants, but he only managed to play two games without taking any wickets. After being released by LSG, Singh contemplated retirement. However, his fortunes changed when Royal Challengers Bangalore (RCB) acquired him at the auction ahead of the 17th edition of the IPL.
Singh expressed his immense gratitude, stating it was an emotional moment for him and his family. He recalled the day of the IPL auction, when he was traveling to Dharamsala for a game. After landing around 7-8 pm, he anxiously awaited the results. When his name was not called initially, he believed his IPL journey was over.
Singh considered playing out the ongoing domestic season and potentially retiring after the following season. He acknowledged that life had more to offer beyond cricket. Feeling disheartened, he confided in RCB Bold Diaries about his thoughts.
Life took an unexpected turn for the veteran cricketer. He made his RCB debut in Hyderabad and has since been an integral part of the team’s remarkable six-match winning streak. Singh’s emotional journey was evident when his family called to express their joy. He highlighted the significance of their support, understanding the challenges he had faced throughout his career.
Singh’s journey had begun in 2006 when he made his senior domestic debut as a teenager. He even shared a room with Virat Kohli at the age-group level. In RCB, he found a mentor in head coach Andy Flower. Flower had been impressed by Singh’s bowling during a net session and invited him to an RCB training camp.
Singh credits Flower for keeping faith in him during the lead-up to the auction. He approached Flower and expressed his desire for one chance, emphasizing that it might be his last. Flower responded positively and invited him to the camp.
Upon entering the RCB dressing room, Singh knew that he would eventually get the opportunity to play. He was mentally prepared to wait for his chance. Singh approached every practice session with the same intensity as a match, knowing that he needed to perform from the very beginning.
When the opportunity finally came, Singh grabbed it with both hands. He was eager to contribute with both bat and ball. He had expressed his desire to hit a four and a six, as well as take a wicket. In his RCB debut, he made an immediate impact, hitting a six and a four in an unbeaten 12 off 6 balls. He also picked up a couple of wickets.
Singh’s remarkable performance was a testament to his determination and the belief that RCB had in him. He expressed his gratitude to captain Faf du Plessis for giving him an over to bowl in his first game. Singh’s journey is a reminder that perseverance and support can lead to unexpected success, even when faced with adversity.
