The 2024 edition of the Indian Premier League (IPL) is set to get underway with a marquee clash between Chennai Super Kings (CSK) and Royal Challengers Bangalore (RCB) on March 22. The IPL auction in December last year allowed the teams to plug any gaps in the squad ahead of the new season.
Apart from the regular internationals, domestic players who performed well in the Syed Mushtaq Ali Trophy (SMAT) 2023 also remain key to their respective teams ahead of the new season.
ALSO READ: Ravichandran Ashwin Seeks CSK’s Assistance For IPL 2024 Opener Tickets
Here are five Syed Mushtaq Ali stars to watch out for in the upcoming edition of the IPL
Ramandeep Singh
Ramandeep Singh, a pivotal figure in Punjab’s triumphant SMAT 2023 campaign, caught the attention with his dynamic performances. Known for his explosive finishing prowess, this 26-year-old all-rounder has transitioned from Mumbai Indians to Kolkata Knight Riders for INR 20 lakh. Singh’s impressive record in SMAT 2023, where he amassed 127 runs at a staggering strike rate of 222.80, coupled with his medium-paced bowling abilities, makes him a player to watch out for.
Riyan Parag
Despite some inconsistencies in the IPL, Riyan Parag has been a consistent performer in the domestic arena. The 22-year-old emerged as the top-scorer in SMAT 2023, exhibiting his ability to score quick runs in the middle order with 510 runs at an impressive average of 85 and a strike rate of 182.79. Rajasthan Royals will be banking on Parag to replicate his domestic form and provide stability to their batting lineup.
Abhishek Sharma
A member of India’s U19 World Cup-winning squad in 2018, Abhishek Sharma has steadily made his mark in the IPL. With a prolific showing in SMAT 2023, where he accumulated 485 runs for Punjab, Sharma showcased his versatility as an all-rounder. Sunrisers Hyderabad, where Sharma currently plies his trade, will rely on his explosive batting at the top order, especially with the addition of Travis Head to the squad.
Suyash Sharma
Following an impressive outing for Kolkata Knight Riders in IPL 2023, Suyash Sharma carried his momentum into the 2023 SMAT, finishing as the joint-second highest wicket-taker with 18 scalps. KKR will be banking on his spin prowess to complement the likes of Sunil Narine and Varun Chakravarthy in the upcoming season.
Mohsin Khan
Mohsin Khan made a notable impact for Lucknow Super Giants in IPL 2022 before facing an injury setback in the subsequent season. However, his stellar performance in the 2023 SMAT for Uttar Pradesh, where he claimed 11 wickets with an impressive economy rate of 5.84, signals his resurgence and potential to shine in the forthcoming IPL season.
As the IPL unfolds, these SMAT stars hold the promise of electrifying performances and may well be the game-changers for their respective teams.
