India, Dec. 3 -- After a sceptical India finally embraced the new T20 format two decades ago, the 2007 World Cup triumph by a young MS Dhoni-led side transformed perceptions overnight. That win laid the foundation for a revolutionary idea, and the IPL was born a year later. T20 cricket was still in its infancy, even for the 'icon players', but the league's franchise model - its structure, player pull, expanding fan base and, crucially, its strategic long-term investment-triggered a talent boom that reshaped Indian cricket.

Former South Africa captain Graeme Smith, who featured in the first four IPL seasons and lifted the inaugural title with Rajasthan Royals under the late Shane Warne, saw more than just a player's experience in the leag...