IPL 2018: 5 categories of players that can rule the auctionÂ
All the questions pertaining to player retention have been answered and the franchisees are out scouting for players that fit in and form the winning combination. The aim is to form a list of players that the particular franchisee would bid for. The list is further divided into sublists of must-have players, key players, and good-to-have players.
Compiling the list is a convoluted process and involves numerous factors that need to be considered. Team combination and budget are the two most important factors. The T20 format has many facets and choosing right players suitable for each facet is a must. Horses for courses approach is an integral part of this format, especially when it comes to IPL.
Let us have a look at five categories of players that will make 2018 IPL auction exciting.
#1 Young Indian batsmen
India is blessed with an overwhelming number of young batsmen having sublime batting skills. These tenacious and zealous young batsmen are not intimidated by any world class bowling attack. The fact that IPL has proved to be a gateway leading to the national side is what inspires them to give it everything when provided with an opportunity. Time and again these individuals have proved to be game changers.
Following are the young Indian batsmen which the franchises may look out for :
Shreyas Iyer (Delhi Daredevils)- A 360-degree player, Iyer usually bats at number three or four. He has all the qualities of an extraordinary batsman - great temperament, excellent technique and match awareness. Rahul Dravid's counselling has worked wonders for him.
Rahul Tripathi (Rising Pune Supergiants) - A hard-hitting batsman. Tripathi opens the innings and gives the team a flying start. He has hit six sixes in an over twice in local cricket.
Nitish Rana (Mumbai Indians) - Impeccable technique combined with a calm head, the southpaw was one of the highest run-getters and a match winner for Mumbai Indians in IPL 2017. An average of 30 plus in IPL is no mean feat.
Sarfaraz Khan (Royal Challengers Bangalore) - An attacking batsman with a wide range of shots. He normally plays a role of a finisher in the T20 format. Sarfaraz has also worked on his fitness which was once an impediment to his place in the RCB side.
Prithvi Shaw - Immensely talented, India's under-19 captain Shaw has not played in the IPL yet. He has a textbook-style technique and plays pace and spin equally well. Even Trent Boult found his technique against swing bowling impressive. He can pile up runs quickly without taking many risks.