IPL 2024: New Players to Watch Out!
The IPL kicks off on March 22nd and some incredible rookies are joining the party! These fresh faces could be game-changers for their teams. Here are 7 exciting newbies to keep an eye on:
Rachin Ravindra (CSK)
This young New Zealand batsman impressed everyone with his batting at the World Cup. Even though he’s new to the IPL, he might get the chance to open the batting for CSK, justifying the auction price of INR 1.8 crore. Watch out for his powerful hitting and his ability to spin the ball too!
Sameer Rizvi (CSK)
Don’t be fooled by his rookie status! Rizvi is a smashing batsman, especially against spin bowlers. He caught CSK’s attention with his brilliant performances in Indian domestic cricket. After the big bid of INR 8.40 crore, Rizvi, with some key players missing from CSK, might finally get his chance to shine by dominating the spinners in the IPL. Remember his unbeaten 75 runs off just 46 balls? That’s what got him noticed!
Gerald Coetzee (MI)
Buckle up for some serious speed! This South African bowler throws really fast and has some clever tricks up his sleeve to confuse the batsmen. He did well for RR before and could be a crucial partner for Mumbai Indians’ star player, Tim David. Remember, Coetzee even grabbed a whopping 20 wickets at a strike rate of 19.05 in just 8 games at the World Cup – that’s impressive!
Nuwan Thushara (MI)
Get ready for a unique bowling style! This Sri Lankan bowler throws the ball like the legendary Lasith Malinga. He recently took a hat-trick and a five-wicket haul, against Bangladesh in Sylhet, surprising everyone with his special slinging action. Even though he’s new to the IPL, Thushara’s got experience in other leagues such as LPL and PSL; and could add some spice to Mumbai Indians’ bowling attack.
Azmatullah Omarzai (GT)
Called Afghanistan’s Hardik Pandya, this exciting all-rounder can both bat powerfully at any position and swing the ball like a pro. His batting and bowling skills recently left everyone speechless, making him a valuable player for Gujarat Titans. Even batting legend Sachin Tendulkar was impressed by his swing bowling style! Keep an eye out for his big hits and his ability to take wickets too.
Spencer Johnson (GT)
This Australian bowler is a giant! With his ability to create tricky angles for the batsman, Johnson could be a valuable weapon in Gujarat Titans’ bowling arsenal. Showcasing some amazing performances in the leagues like Hundred, Global T20 Canada, and the BBL, is why he got a huge contract in the IPL auction!
Kumar Kushagra (DC)
This wicketkeeper-batsman from India hits the ball like a ton of bricks! He impressed everyone with his powerful batting in domestic tournaments. Look out for his big sixes! Bought for INR 7.20 crore by DC, Kushagra impressed Sourav Ganguly making 67 off 37 balls in the 50-over Vijay Hazare Trophy. Delhi Capitals bought him for a hefty sum, and he might even get the chance to play instead of Rishabh Pant if needed.
These new players are brimming with talent and have the potential to become IPL superstars. Keep an eye on them as they take the cricket world by storm!