IPL 2014: Top 5 Indian players so far

The 2014 edition of the IPL has seen some absolute nail biters. It has seen a tougher more competitive version of a tournament which was endangered of being more entertainment and less substance. As Shakib Al Hasan said the other day, IPL is serious cricket.The league has evolved over the years and the focus has shifted from cheerleaders to true performers - the players.Overseas players like Glenn Maxwell, David Miller and AB de Villiers have definitely upped the standard of the sport and the exposure our young Indian talents have got has been tremendous.So, who are the best Indian players so far this season, who have been able to make their mark despite all the big names involved? Here are the top five:

#5 Karun Nair

Rajasthan Royals has always been this peculiar team who never depended upon big names for its success. It believes in its youngsters and they have proved time and again their worth. The likes of Ajinkya Rahane made their names heard in the international circuits thanks to the confidence that the Jaipur-based franchise shows in their home grown talents. They spend their money not on brands but on mattle. It is one of the prime reasons that the franchise has been one of the most consistent teams in IPL since its inception.

Karun Nair, a young 22-year-old chap has been hugely impressive this season for the Royals. His knocks have come at crucial times for his side and he has complemented the likes of skipper Shane Watson and Rahane perfectly.

With two half centuries, a highest of 73 not out, he has scored a total of 269 runs so far this season at an average of 33 and striking the ball at 135. He can hit it real big and also knows how to keep a cool head.