New Delhi. IPL is called the world's biggest cricket league because it turns unknown faces into 'global stars' overnight. A similar scene is going to be seen in the 19th season of this T20 cricket league starting next week. While on one hand legends like Virat Kohli, Rohit Sharma and MS Dhoni are in the headlines, on the other hand there are 10 'uncapped' (who have not played international matches) players on whom franchises have placed crores of bets. This 'hidden rustman' of domestic cricket is ready to change the trend of this season with his explosive batting and lethal bowling. That one player from each team can prove to be a 'game changer' this time.
All eyes are on Karthik Sharma, one of the most expensive uncapped players of this season. Chennai Super Kings opened the treasure for this wicketkeeper-batsman. Karthik was bought by CSK for 14.2 crores. Karthik, who scored a lot of runs in Vijay Hazare Trophy, is known for his clean hitting. He fits into the finishing slot of CSK and his ability to play big shots makes him the new weapon of Dhoni's team.
These 10 uncapped players will be in focus in IPL.
Delhi Capitals gave 8.4 crores to Aaqib Nabi
Emerging fast bowler Aaqib Nabi from Jammu and Kashmir has troubled the batsmen a lot in domestic cricket with his pace and bounce. Delhi Capitals has made a big investment on Aaqib Nabi Dar. Delhi has bought Aaqib for Rs 8.4 crores. His ability to take wickets with the new ball and his aggressive attitude make him as dangerous as Umran Malik.
Kumar Kushagra has amazing ability to finish the match
This young wicketkeeper-batsman from Jharkhand has an amazing ability to finish the match. Gujarat Titans, understanding the T20 value of Kushagra, have included him for Rs 7.2 crore. His strike rate in recent domestic tournaments has been quite impressive, which will provide strength to the team in the middle order.
RCB bought Mangesh Yadav for 5.2 crores
Royal Challengers Bangalore is always on the lookout for a bowler who can take wickets despite the small boundaries of the Chinnaswamy Stadium. Mangesh Yadav has caught the attention of RCB selectors by taking consecutive wickets in domestic cricket. The price of Rs 5.2 crore is enough to show how much confidence RCB has in him.
Kolkata Knight Riders spent Rs 3 crore on Tejashwi Singh Dahiya
Tejashwi Singh Dahiya, who created a stir with his power-hitting in the Delhi Premier League, will now show his strength for KKR. KKR always needs batsmen who can score fast runs in the last overs, and Tejashwi is perfect for this role.
Lucknow Super Giants gave 2.6 crores to Mukul Chaudhary
Even though Mukul Chaudhary has played less matches, his impact is very deep. His specialty is to score runs at a high strike rate in the death overs. The Lucknow team is seeing him as a 'finisher' who can turn the tide of the match. Mukul was signed by Lucknow Super Giants for Rs 2.6 crores.
Danish Malewar can become the backbone of Mumbai Indians
The scouting team of Mumbai Indians is often known for cutting diamonds at low prices. Danish Malewar is a part of that series. Danish, who has played innings with patience in first class cricket, has been equally successful in the T20 format as well. He can become the backbone of the middle order for Mumbai.
Vishal Nishad is an emerging leg spinner
Leg spinners have always been valuable in T20 cricket. Vishal Nishad is one such emerging wrist magician. Punjab Kings hope that Vishal will trap the opposing batsmen with his spin. His ability to take early wickets makes him a contender for the playing eleven. Punjab bought Vishal for Rs 30 lakh. Smaran Ravichandran is a classic batsman who has impressed everyone with his consistency in domestic cricket. The Hyderabad team is not looking at him as a backup but as a serious option. His technique and ability to play long innings will give balance to the team. Sunrisers Hyderabad bought Smaran Ramachandran for 30 lakhs.
Brijesh Sharma is a wicket taking bowler
The scouting model of Rajasthan Royals always looks for such players who perform away from the limelight. Brijesh Sharma is also such a player. His recent T20 statistics show that he is a wicket-taking bowler and can lead his team to victory in low-scoring matches. Rajasthan Royals added Brijesh Sharma for Rs 30 lakh.
