The IPL 2024 auction player witnessed not only the splurge on high-profile stars but also the rise of lesser-known names making headlines. Let’s delve into some standout uncapped Indian talents that garnered attention from franchises.
Sameer Rizvi – Chennai Super Kings
Chennai Super Kings secured the services of 20-year-old Sameer Rizvi, making him the costliest uncapped Indian player at Rs 8.4 crore. Hailing from Uttar Pradesh, Rizvi shone in the UP T20 league, amassing 455 runs in nine innings at an impressive strike rate of 188.80. His prowess continued in the Syed Mushtaq Ali Trophy 2023, where he scored 277 runs with an average of 69.25, showcasing his power-hitting skills against spinners.
Kumar Kushagra – Delhi Capitals
Delhi Capitals invested Rs 7.2 crore in 19-year-old wicketkeeper-batsman Kumar Kushagra from Jharkhand. Known for his aggressive batting mindset, Kushagra became the youngest batter to score 250 or more in a first-class innings at the age of 17. In the Deodhar Trophy 2023, he accumulated 227 runs in five innings at a strike rate of 109.13, positioning himself as a potential middle-order stalwart for Delhi.
Shubham Dubey – Rajasthan Royals
Rajasthan Royals acquired the services of Vidarbha’s Shubham Dubey for Rs 5.8 crore, valuing his middle-order batting prowess. Dubey emerged as the top run-scorer for Vidarbha in the Syed Mushtaq Ali Trophy, boasting a strike rate of 187.18 in seven innings. The 29-year-old’s ability to dispatch fast bowlers to the boundary, coupled with a strong base, positions him as a potential game-changer in the backend of the innings.
IPL 2024 auction Swastik Chhikara – Delhi Capitals
Delhi Capitals secured 18-year-old Swastik Chhikara at his base price of Rs 20 lakh. The opening batter showcased his talent in the UP T20 league, finishing as the second-highest scorer with 494 runs in 10 innings, including three centuries, at a strike rate of 173.33. Swastik made a memorable debut in the Vijay Hazare Trophy, smashing a 101-ball 117 for Uttar Pradesh in November.
Ramandeep Singh – Kolkata Knight Riders
IPL 2024 auction Punjab’s explosive lower-order hitter with pace bowling capability, 26-year-old Ramandeep Singh, joined Kolkata Knight Riders for Rs 20 lakh. A former Mumbai Indians squad member, Ramandeep impressed in the Sher-E-Punjab T20 tournament, accumulating 418 runs in 11 innings at a strike rate of 172.73. In the SMAT 2023, he continued his impactful performances, striking at 222.80 and scoring 127 runs in seven innings while playing the crucial finisher role.
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