New Delhi:
The IPL has become a stepping stone for young talent to prove their pedigree on the big stage and press hard for a selection in the Indian team. One can rattle off many names who have gone onto the don the Indian jersey by producing stellar performances in the IPL.
Season 10 has been no different with some young turks showcasing their batting prowess with the willow. Much like their more established and senior counterparts, these rookies have proved that not only are they are not only belligerent hitters but have the temperament to steer their side out of trouble. What seems even more pleasing is the level of maturity they have showcased in approaching the game all through the season.
So here are four emerging batsmen who made a mark with the bat in season 10 of the IPL
1. Rishabh Pant: Hailing from Uttaranchal, many labelled him to be the heir apparent of Mahendra Singh Dhoni. Pant stole billions of hearts with his destructive hitting and power packed stroke making for Delhi Daredevils. When the Delhi side was down in the doldrums, the left-hander stood firm like a rock and held the fort for his side with fellow Sanju Samson. What makes Pant stand out is his character to overcome adversity. Playing like a champion post his father's passing away speaks volume about his resolve and sheer grit. Pant was an exception in a batting order which looked completely out of sorts all through the tournament. Pant ended up with 366 runs for the Daredevils at a strike rate of 160 plus.
2. Nitish Rana: Nitish Rana was the enforcer in the Mumbai Indians batting lineup.With their skipper Rohit Sharma out of sorts all through the season, Rana came to the fore with some belligerent innings with the bat. Rana held the middle order well in the absence of experience. Rana showcased his hitting prowess as a clean striker of the ball and can play the waiting game well. Rana also added value to the Mumbai Indians side with his exceptional fielding. Rana amassed an impressive 333 runs at a healthy average of 30.
3. Rahul Tripathi: Much of Rising Pune Supergiants resurgence in the IPL was on the back of Rahul Tripathi's classy and elegant stroke making. Tripathi's batting look be bestowed with class and flair.Tripathi created a mark of his own in a batting lineup which boasted of stars like Mahendra Singh Dhoni, Ajinkya Rahane and Steven Smith, He could step up the momentum by playing some copybook strokes which were pleasing to watch. His game exemplified aggression with caution. Tripathi certainly looks one promising talent who if groomed in the right manner can go on to play for India.
4. Ishan Kishan: Ishan Kishan played his role as a power hitter for Gujarat Lions with great success. Kishan has drafted up the order to step up the scoring rate and was fairly successful in giving his side the opening salvo in the powerplay.Kishan was quite strong off his legs and preferred to heave the ball on the leg side for big hits.
