IPL 2018: Best uncapped XI of the season
Despite existing only for 10 years, the Indian Premier League has emerged as the biggest platform for young, up-and-coming talents from all countries to display their exceptional talents and stake their claim for a spot in their nation's cricket team. Take, for example, the case of Jasprit Bumrah and Hardik Pandya. The duo made their name in IPL courtesy some exceptional performances for the Mumbai-based franchise, and are now an integral member of the Indian team in all the formats.
Bumrah, especially, has been on a roll since his debut and is currently the best limited overs bowler in the world. As always, this season has featured plenty of uncapped players who have exceeded expectations. As a way of giving them the credit they deserve, here is the best playing XI comprising uncapped players from this IPL:
Openers
Prithvi Shaw (Delhi Daredevils)
It's not very often that an U-19 skipper manages to make an impact at the senior level right after taking his team to victory at the junior level, but Prithvi Shaw, just like Virat Kohli, has successfully managed to do so.
The 19-year old sensation from Mumbai has been exceptional for DD at the top of the order and has managed to keep Colin Munro and Gautam Gambhir out of the squad. Having played only 7 matches for the team, Shaw has accumulated 216 runs. His average of almost 31 is no doubt a very impressive number, but it is his fantastic strike rate of 160 that is earning him praise from all quarters.
Suryakumar Yadav (Mumbai Indians)
Suryakumar Yadav's return to Mumbai Indians is the perfect example of how a change in franchise can do wonders for a struggling player. Always considered a player with a lot of potential during his stint with Kolkata Knight Riders, Yadav has finally managed to break the glass ceiling this season and has arguably been the MVP for the Mumbai Indians.
Promoted to the top of the order after a couple of matches for the team, he has provided solid starts more often than not. In 12 matches so far, Yadav has 473 runs, and four 50+ scores, to his name at an average of almost 40 and a strike rate of almost 130. He is the highest run-scorer for the team and will be a force to be reckoned with in future seasons.