Ranji Trophy's superstars Deepak Chahar, Bhargav Bhatt and Unmukt Chand will make their first IPL appearance this year. We also have a bag full of foreign talent taking their first bow on this platform. Many have been in the field for years, many rookies, many after retirement; here is a peep into some of their worlds. With all this new talent, the IPL is set to break records, create history and begin a new chapter for Indian Cricket.
James Franklin (Mumbai)
His late entry into IPL is a mystery. A good all-rounder, this Kiwi southpaw can deliver quick runs down the order and bowl a full spell as well. His three for 23 against Sri Lanka got him a Man of the Match award. Mumbai should use him quite often, keeping in mind his experience and their four foreign criteria
Brad Haddin (Kolkata)
A hard-hitter, his entry into the IPL is welcome. He has also captained a few T20Is and Australia's second eleven. He's been an able replacement for Gilly in the Aussie side, now the Indian grounds will want to see fireworks from his T20 bats. He might open the innings as well, may be with Gambhir, and the duo would want to create a stable platform for the team.
Tim Paine (Pune)
As captain of the U-19 Australian Team in 2004, he has a lot of experience. His contribution as an opening batsman and wicketkeeper will make him Pune's front line warrior. Making a mark here may also keep him in strong contender for Haddin's role in the national team. Though relatively new to the international arena, he has to perform from match one. When his bat does the talking, he can be a pain for the bowlers!
Colin Ingram (Delhi)
Daring flexibility right at the top is what he offers. The first Protea to score a century on debut; he sure made a stylish entry. His international T20 figures don't prove much, but he has been a part of the Warriors. Five ODIs and Two centuries, Delhiites will expect a great show from him. Can he do a Sehwag down the order?
Rile Rossouw (Bangalore)
This 21-year-old loves to challenge with his power hitting. Yet to step into senior team, his work for the South African Eagles won him a place in the national Under-19 team. Bangalore must be hoping that he will repeat his domestic performance.
Ryan ten Doeschate (Kolkata)
This Dutch hero created history during the 2006 Intercontinental Cup with four consecutive centuries, an average of 228.66 and an unbeaten highest of 259. He was nominated for the ICC Associate ODI player of the year Award (in 2007) and won it in 2010. With medium pace and a strong batting technique, Kolkata has picked a valuable Knight. Interestingly, his last ODI century was at Eden; the WC match against Ireland.
Faf du Plessis (Chennai)
A combination of youth and experience, this all-rounder should be an obvious choice. In his latest T20, he had a spell of 4 for 18 at an economy rate of 4.50, winning the Bowler of the Match Award. All eyes will be on him because of his incredible numbers on paper.
Nuwan Pradeep (Bangalore)
Until 20, he had never been near a cricket pitch. Three years later, he was playing for the Sri Lankan Test Team! How impressive is that? A slinging action, an unconventional style and unimaginable pace, he adds to Bangalore's pace pack of Zak and Nannes. How many batsmen will be caught unawares?
Kasturi Ramanathan is a First Year Student at Christ University, Bangalore.
