Today, former New Zealand cricketer James Franklin turns 44. Known for his contributions on the field from 2001 to 2013, Franklin represented New Zealand across all formats and played for Mumbai Indians in the IPL. But in recent years, a controversial revelation by Indian spinner Yuzvendra Chahal about Franklin’s behavior during a celebration night has added a dark mark to Franklin’s cricketing legacy.
The Incident that Left Chahal Traumatized
In a shocking interview in 2022, Yuzvendra Chahal shared a disturbing experience from 2011, when he was with the Mumbai Indians team. During that time, following a victorious night in the Champions League, Franklin, along with Australian cricketer Andrew Symonds, allegedly played a dangerous prank on Chahal. In his recounting, Chahal stated that Franklin and Symonds were highly intoxicated when they decided to tie him up and left him taped overnight as a joke.
Chahal revealed that Franklin and Symonds bound his hands and legs, sealed his mouth with tape, and left him alone in the room. The two players were reportedly so inebriated that they forgot about him entirely until the next morning. Chahal was only discovered hours later by a sweeper who freed him. Recalling the trauma, Chahal explained how frightening the experience was, as he had been left alone and unable to call for help.
Franklin’s Career in Cricket
Despite the controversy, Franklin’s career achievements are notable. Franklin, who retired in 2013, played a crucial role for New Zealand in Tests, ODIs, and T20Is. In his career, he scored 808 runs with a century and two half-centuries in Test cricket while taking 82 wickets. In ODIs, he contributed 1,270 runs along with 81 wickets, and he made 463 runs with 20 wickets in T20s. Franklin also played in the IPL, representing Mumbai Indians in 20 matches from 2011 to 2013.
However, Chahal’s revelation has overshadowed these accomplishments, bringing unwanted attention to the former cricketer. Fans of both Franklin and Chahal continue to discuss the incident, with many expressing surprise that such an incident occurred without repercussions at the time.
Legacy Overshadowed by Controversy
While James Franklin’s cricketing journey has a legacy of skill and success, the incident shared by Chahal raises questions about the treatment of young players and the culture surrounding post-match celebrations. As the cricket world recalls Franklin’s contributions, this incident serves as a reminder of the importance of respect and safety among players.
