The Indian Premier League has become synonymous with cricketing excellence, featuring established superstars and international veterans. But beneath the glitz and glamour, the IPL has also emerged as a breeding ground for unexpected heroes.
These are players who, before the IPL, might have been on the fringes of domestic cricket or even unknown quantities. The IPL's unique auction system and franchise structure provide a platform for these players to showcase their talent on the grandest stage.
A bowler with an unconventional style, a hard-hitting batsman from the hinterland, or a wicketkeeper with exceptional reflexes – the IPL unearths hidden gems.
The pressure-cooker environment hones their skills, and overnight, they become household names. Here is a list of 5 such players who can turn out to be big surprises in the ongoing season of IPL.
1) Ishan Kishan – Mumbai Indians
All eyes will be on Ishan Kishan this IPL season. The Mumbai Indians star has a point to prove after being dropped from the Indian team and losing his BCCI contract. Controversy swirled around his alleged indiscipline, but the wicketkeeper-batsman has a golden opportunity for a comeback.
Kishan is no stranger to the IPL spotlight. However, this year carries extra weight. A strong performance can silence critics and propel him back into national contention, particularly with the T20 World Cup on the horizon.
2) Sai Sudharsan – Gujarat Titans
The Gujarat Titans youngster emerged as a revelation in IPL 2023. His dazzling knock of 96 runs off just 47 balls in the IPL final stole the show. Sudharsan's overall performance was impressive too, amassing 362 runs in just 8 matches.
With another season under his belt, the talented batsman looks primed to continue his meteoric rise. If he can replicate his last season's form, Sudharsan could be a big surprise package for the Titans in IPL 2024.
3) Gerald Coetzee – Mumbai Indians
The IPL is known for unearthing hidden gems, and South Africa's Gerald Coetzee has all the makings of a breakout star for Mumbai Indians in IPL 2024. Compared to the legendary Dale Steyn for his pace and action, Coetzee can form a potent opening attack with Jasprit Bumrah.
He's already impressed in international cricket and domestic T20 leagues. While MI boasts a strong bowling unit, Coetzee's X-factor lies in his raw pace and the ability to swing the new ball. If he adapts quickly to IPL conditions, his fiery spells could dismantle opposition batting line-ups.
4) Sameer Rizvi – Chennai Super Kings
The Chennai Super Kings surprised many by spending a hefty sum on uncapped batsman Sameer Rizvi at the IPL 2024 auction. While Rizvi hasn't featured extensively in senior domestic cricket, his exploits in the Uttar Pradesh T20 League have earned him a reputation as a destructive hitter.
Known for his ability to single-handedly dismantle bowling attacks, Rizvi possesses the power to take down totals on his day. With CSK in need of a middle-order finisher, Rizvi could be the answer if he adapts to the high-pressure environment of the IPL.
5) Kumar Kushagra – Delhi Capitals
The IPL is known for unearthing hidden talents, and this year, Kumar Kushagra, the young wicketkeeper-batsman from Jharkhand, could be the name to watch for Delhi Capitals. Despite being a newcomer, Kushagra's immense talent has impressed experts.
Picked up for a hefty sum, Kushagra might even fill the wicketkeeper's slot initially, with Rishabh Pant recovering. His reputation as a future star precedes him, and his ability to perform under pressure could be key. If Kushagra grabs his opportunities, he could set the IPL stage on fire and become a surprise package for Delhi.
