Graeme Smith IPL career from 2008 to 2011 was defined by fearless left-handed batting that produced 739 runs in 29 innings, striking at 110 runs per 100 balls. Opening the innings for Rajasthan Royals in 2008, 2009 and 2010 before finishing with Pune Warriors in 2011, the South African captain turned every 7.3 deliveries into either a boundary or a maximum, carving 94 fours and 9 sixes in total. Four half-centuries, topped by an unbeaten 91, showcased the same aggressive mindset that had already made him a global leader. With no bowling overs recorded, Smith’s sole focus was anchoring or exploding at the top, and his 739-run tally tells the story of a batsman who combined power with placement, guiding teams through the power-play and beyond.

Faf du Plessis has become one of the most bankable IPL openers across 13 seasons and four franchises, culminating in his 2025 stint with Delhi Capitals. The South African has stacked up 4,773 runs at a strike rate of 135, carving 439 boundaries and clearing the rope 174 times—numbers that paint the picture of a batsman who keeps the scoreboard in perpetual motion. With 39 half-centuries from 147 innings, he has built consistency into aggression, while his unbeaten 96 remains the tantalising high-water mark just short of a maiden IPL ton. From Chennai Super Kings’ yellow to Royal Challengers Bengaluru’s red and now Delhi Capitals’ blue, du Plessis has turned every jersey into a run-making statement, proving that adaptability and class travel well in T20 cricket.

Note: This overview is partially generated using AI and is based on statistical data. Please verify with official sources for complete accuracy.