The Indian Premier League has always been centered around unearthing new talents. New Indian talents? Even more so. And considering that aspect, the latest edition of the World’s Greatest T20 League turned out to be an immense success. In this article, you will look at the best performer from each IPL side in 2021 season. Spoiler alert: Most of them are Indians.
CSK – Ruturaj Gaikwad
The youngster who was deemed to be lacking “spark” came out all-guns-blazing this season. From 15 matches that he played, the opener scored 603 runs at an average of 46.30. Ruturaj currently sits 2nd on the highest run-getters list. Ably supported by Faf, Ruturaj was the biggest reason that Dhoni’s men could march right into the final so easily.
KKR – Varun Chakravarthy
An architect-turned-cricketer, Varun hails from Bidar and is 30 years of age. Without a doubt, he’s been the breakout star of this season, one-upping established names in Virat Kohli, MS Dhoni, etc. Be it powerplay, middle-overs, or even death overs; Varun Chakravarthy is Eoin Morgan’s go-to man. And why wouldn’t he be? After all, Varun has scalped 18 wickets with an economy of just 6.40 this season.
PBKS – KL Rahul
The name needs no introduction. Captaining the side for 13 games, KL Rahul scored 626 runs at a whopping average of 62.60. Naturally attacking, Rahul had to play the anchor’s role with Punjab’s middle-order in tatters. He did so with aplomb, holding one end while striking the ball at 138.80.
RR – Sanju Samson
Let’s get this out the way, Samson was wayward as a leader. But as a wicket-keeper bat, he was a maniac. With 2 fifties and a scintillating 100 to his name, Sanju ended the tourney with 484 runs, which makes him the 7th highest run-getter this season. Way ahead of proven veterans in Virat Kohli and Rohit Sharma.
RCB – Harshal Patel
Harshal’s renaissance is a story for the ages. From a Delhi Capitals discard to the purple-cap winner for Royal Challenger’s Bangalore, the turnaround was unbelievable. His cunning slower-ones and dipping yorkers bamboozled even the best in the business. Harshal ended his season with 32 wickets, equalling Dwayne Bravo’s tally for most wickets in a season. Can I get over his 5/27 against Mumbai Indians? Definitely Not!
DC – Avesh Khan
The Indore-born speedster managed to overshadow teammates Kagiso Rabada and Anrich Nortje. Consistently clocking over 140kmph, Avesh showed unreal control over his line and lengths. It rewarded him with 24 wickets; making him the second-highest wicket-taker of IPL 2021.
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SRH – Jason Holder
Sunrisers Hyderabad’s tournament was a train-wreck. Doesn’t make sense that such a formidable team ended up at the bottom of the table. Anyways, Jason Holder was their only saving grace. The Jamaican had a point to prove after being snubbed for the upcoming World Cup, and with 16 wickets from just 8 matches, he must’ve forced the windies management to take notice.
MI – Jasprit Bumrah
An economy of 7.45 runs per over and 21 wickets in his kitty. The Jasprit Bumrah you expect. India’s best LOI pacer tried his best but to no avail, as a misfiring batting line-up cost the defending champions a place in the playoffs. Last on the list but definitely not the least.
