Top players expected to get their first shot in the Indian Premiere League

As the countdown to the IPL auction closes in, a large number of players are all set to go under the hammer. With the franchisees all set to build their teams from the scratch, the upcoming auctions promises to be an exciting one. Every year during the IPL auction, several players make it big whereas many others miss out.

The selection of the players is often based around a player’s recent form. Over the years, we’ve seen many players earn big in relation to their splendid performance in international cricket or domestic leagues. Here, we prepare a list of cricketers who are likely to get their first shot at the Indian Premier League.

1. Joe Root

He’s amongst the rare breed of star cricketers to have never featured in the Indian Premier League. However having extended his name for the IPL auctions, Joe Root is expected to have a huge demand amongst franchisees. He was the fourth highest run scorer in ODIs this year. The right hander can be a formidable part of any batting lineup.

The ardent batsman possesses the ability to accelerate his innings according to the pace of the game. Alongside being a proper batsman and a text book player, Root can also be a captaincy option. It will be interesting to see which franchise manages to get hold of him.

2. Jonny Bairstow

The right-hander has displayed some sensational performances in the last few months. With an astounding average of 106.80 in ODIs last year, Jonny Bairstow has surely grabbed many eyeballs. His batting at the top order would be really handy in laying a platform for the others.

He can also be an explosive option at the middle order as was seen when he smashed a splendour 60(35) against South Africa earlier last year. His glovework behind the stumps has also been efficient. Considering his versatility, Bairstow would be amongst the top contenders as teams go after wicketkeeper batsmen.

3) Ish Sodhi

Ish Sodhi is currently the No.1 ranked bowler in T20 internationals. Hence, it’s not difficult to predict that various IPL teams would be willing to have him in the fray. Sodhi also played an integral role in Knight’s successful campaign in the Super Smash Cup.

The leg spinner has enjoyed a tremendous record in T20 internationals. He has an outstanding tally of 29 wickets from just 18 matches. He has made life difficult for the opponents by spinning a web around them. Not only has he taken wickets, but also restricted the opposition’s run scoring. His economy of 6.89 is a sublime proof of the same.

4) Nathan Lyon

The off spinner has managed to surprise one and all with his tight bowling. Often regarded as ‘GOAT’ in the Australian ranks, Nathan Lyon’s ability to pick wickets on pitches not assistive has been noteworthy. The fact that he as displayed class and consistency whenever he has been provided with opportunity is laudable.

Even in the shorter formats, the off spinner has made his mark. He has done well in the Big Bash League representing Sydney Sixers. While he has hardly played T20 Internationals for Australia, franchisees are well aware of his bowling prowess. He would be a bright prospect in the Indian pitches that are spin friendly.

5) Lungi Ngidi

A pacer who can hurl the ball over 140kph and clicks consistently. Lungi Ngidi was awarded the man of the match on his T20I debut against Sri Lanka last year. The youngster was once named Africa T20 Cup player of the year. He later went out to be an integral part of Titans’ successful campaign in 2015-16.

The importance of a death bowler in T20s is invaluable. Hence, there’s no doubt that Ngidi will be sought after in the IPL auctions. The fact that he got Kohli twice in the ongoing test series shows his acumen. He will be expected to carry his longer format confidence in the T20s as well.

6) Prithvi Shaw

The young sensation has created an enigma in the cricketing circles at an early stage. Also the captain in the ongoing u19 World Cup, Prithvi Shaw has displayed tremendous form whether it’s been the Ranji Trophy or the first two games of the u19 World Cup. The aggressive intent displayed shows his eagerness to put the bowler under pressure.

His name featured in last year’s auction though he didn’t find takers. However, this time around, the 18 year old has created enough buzz to get noted by the franchisees. Touted to be the next big thing in Indian cricket, Shaw would be excited to share the dressing room with the cricketing giants.