Ben Cutting reflects on IPL glory and fan frenzy as call for his return surge

Australian all-rounder Ben Cutting may have never worn the Baggy Green in a Test match, but his legacy in T20 cricket - particularly the Indian Premier League (IPL) - remains unforgettable for fans across the globe. Recently, Cutting revealed that he receives nearly 150 messages every day from cricket lovers urging him to make a comeback to the IPL.

While his international career with Australia was modest, Cutting’s explosive performance in the 2016 IPL final for Sunrisers Hyderabad (SRH) against Royal Challengers Bengaluru (RCB) cemented his name in cricket folklore. In a high-octane finale, Cutting smashed an electrifying 39 runs off just 15 deliveries and claimed two vital wickets. His all-round performance was instrumental in the team’s 8-run victory and remains one of the most iconic displays in IPL history.

Reflecting on that unforgettable night, Cutting recently told ESPNcricinfo that the 2016 final still ranks as the pinnacle of his career – even surpassing his moments representing Australia. "To play for Australia was always a lifetime goal of mine, and I'm still disappointed I didn't get to play Test cricket. But that IPL final, for me, still ranks higher than everything else," he admitted.

The 37-year-old all-rounder also opened up about the emotional and fan-driven aftermath of his IPL success. “If I load up my private messages on Instagram now, there'll be 150 every day saying, 'Can you make yourself available for the IPL as a replacement player?' for any team that's coming up against RCB,” he revealed.

Cutting’s late-innings heroics came at a crucial juncture in the final, as SRH were looking to post a challenging total. Entering the crease in the 16th over, he transformed the innings with a display of clean, fearless hitting. His knock included one of the biggest sixes in IPL history - a 117-metre monster off Shane Watson.

“I knew that he [Watson] was bowling close to 140 kmph and some quick bowling like that on that sort of wicket was going to suit my game to a tee. I just wish it wasn't against Watto! I love the bloke. He was a hero of mine coming through the ranks. I still feel guilty about seeing it unfold like that against someone that I looked up to—and still do,” Cutting recalled.

“For some reason, this year, social media has blown up far more,” he noted. “I think because the longer the years drag on and RCB still haven't won, the more important that night becomes for the Hyderabadis.”