Top 10 Most Underrated Players in IPL

The Indian Premier League (IPL) has been a spectacle of cricketing prowess and entertainment since its inception in 2008. While stars like Virat Kohli and MS Dhoni frequently capture headlines, there are numerous players whose consistent performances and crucial contributions go under the radar. In this article, we will delve into the top 10 most underrated players in IPL, highlighting those who have significantly impacted their teams but haven’t received the recognition they deserve. These players exemplify skill, determination, and crucial playmaking, proving indispensable to their squads.

10. Rahul Tripathi – The Resilient Run-Getter

Rahul Tripathi, despite not being a household name, consistently showcases his value as one of the most underrated players in IPL. His agility and ability to score quickly make him a pivotal opener or middle-order batsman, depending on team needs.

Key Performances: Rahul has several instances where his quick scoring has directly contributed to his team’s victories, particularly in chasing big totals. His ability to hit boundaries in the powerplay or accelerate in the middle overs makes him a versatile threat.
Impact on Team: Tripathi brings flexibility to any team he plays for by fitting into multiple batting slots. His fearless approach often stabilizes innings or chases down challenging targets, making him a valuable player during crucial matches.
Skills: He is known for his aggressive stroke play and sharp cricketing intelligence, which allows him to exploit gaps in the field and rotate strike effectively.

9. Axar Patel – The Silent Guardian

Axar Patel’s contributions as one of the most underrated players in IPL often go unnoticed amidst flashier performances by big-name stars. His all-round capabilities provide his team with crucial balance, adding depth both in batting and bowling.

Key Contributions: Axar has consistently delivered economical bowling spells and played cameo innings under pressure, contributing significantly to his team’s performance in tight games.
Bowling Prowess: He excels in middle overs where controlling runs is crucial; his tight line and length, coupled with subtle variations, make him a tough puzzle for batsmen.
Versatility: Beyond bowling, Axar is a competent batsman who can score crucial runs and is an excellent fielder, often saving runs and taking stunning catches.

8. Harshal Patel – The Death Overs Specialist

Harshal Patel has emerged as one of the most underrated players in IPL due to his exceptional skills in bowling during the death overs. His knack for picking up wickets in the final overs of the game has turned many matches in his team’s favor.

Memorable Performances: Harshal’s ability to execute perfect yorkers and slower balls at the death has seen him defend tight scores against some of the best hitters in the league.
Skill Set: His variation in pace and pinpoint accuracy under pressure are hallmarks of his bowling. He strategically uses the slower ball and sharp bouncers to outfox batsmen.
Recognition: Despite his key contributions, Harshal often remains out of the limelight, making him one of the most effective yet underrated players in the IPL.

7. Krunal Pandya – The All-Round Powerhouse

Krunal Pandya, often overshadowed by his brother Hardik Pandya, consistently proves his worth as one of the most underrated players in IPL. His ability to deliver both with the bat and ball makes him an invaluable asset to his team.

Key Innings: Krunal has several quick-scoring innings that have changed the course of matches, particularly in chasing or setting challenging totals.
Bowling Analysis: He is known for his economical spell of left-arm spin bowling, especially in controlling the run flow during the middle overs.
Fielding Excellence: Krunal is also a dynamic fielder, contributing significantly to his team’s overall fielding efforts with his agility and sharp reflexes.

6. Avesh Khan – The Emerging Fast Bowler

Avesh Khan, though young, has shown potential that marks him as one of the most underrated players in IPL. His pace and ability to deliver crucial breakthroughs make him a bowler to watch.

Breakthrough Spells: Avesh has been instrumental in breaking partnerships and derailing the opposition’s momentum with his fast bowling, particularly in the powerplays and death overs.
Growth Curve: His development over the seasons showcases a growing understanding of his craft, adjusting his length and pace according to the batsmen and conditions.
Challenges Overcome: Despite injuries and competitive team selections, Avesh has consistently made comebacks, proving his resilience and dedication to his sport.

Read More: Top 10 Longest Sixes in IPL History: Record-Breaking Hits

5. Shahrukh Khan – The Finisher

Shahrukh Khan is quickly becoming recognized for his finishing abilities, yet he remains one of the most underrated players in IPL. His knack for handling pressure and delivering in crunch situations makes him a key player.

Finishing Flair: His ability to close games, seen in numerous instances where he has successfully chased down targets, showcases his calm under pressure.
Batting Style: Shahrukh’s aggressive approach, combined with the ability to find gaps and clear the boundary, makes him a dangerous batsman in the final overs.
Team Impact: He adds a layer of depth to his team’s batting lineup, providing them with the assurance of having a reliable finisher.

4. Tushar Deshpande – The Unsung Hero

Tushar Deshpande may not be widely known, but his contributions on the field qualify him as one of the most underrated players in IPL. His pace and accuracy can be crucial in tight games.

Key Overs: Tushar has shown capability in bowling at critical junctures of the game, often taking on the responsibility of bowling tough overs where controlling the run rate is crucial.
Skills and Abilities: His ability to swing the ball and maintain a disciplined line and length provides his team with an advantage, especially in conditions favorable to seam bowling.
Future Potential: With each IPL season, Tushar shows signs of evolving into a more refined and effective bowler, hinting at a promising future if given consistent opportunities.

3. Priyam Garg – The Young Prodigy

As a young talent, Priyam Garg has already shown signs of becoming one of the most underrated players in IPL. His technique and composure at the crease belie his age and experience.

Match-Winning Knocks: Priyam has played several key innings, showcasing his ability to anchor the innings or accelerate the scoring as needed.
Batting Technique: His solid technique against both spin and pace bowling allows him to adapt quickly to different pitches and match situations.
Leadership Skills: Leading the India U-19 team to the World Cup final has equipped Priyam with leadership qualities that translate into his play, making him a valuable team player.

2. Sarfaraz Khan – The Underappreciated Talent

Sarfaraz Khan, with his unique batting style and consistent performances, stands out as one of the most underrated players in IPL. His ability to play innovative shots and maintain a high strike rate makes him a match-winner.

Innovative Batting: Sarfaraz’s knack for playing unconventional shots, including scoops and reverse sweeps, makes him a difficult batsman to bowl to.
Consistent Performances: Despite limited opportunities, he has shown he can be a reliable middle-order batsman, often scoring crucial runs to steer his team to competitive totals.
Role in Team: Sarfaraz’s flexibility to bat at various positions and his ability to adapt his game according to the team’s needs highlight his importance as a versatile player.

1. Mohit Sharma – The Forgotten Champion

Mohit Sharma, once a mainstay of the Indian cricket team, has experienced ups and downs in his IPL career. Despite this, he remains one of the most underrated players in IPL, especially with his expertise in the death overs.

Death Bowling: Mohit’s mastery in the death overs, particularly his use of the slower ball, has been pivotal in many matches, making him a go-to bowler during the closing stages of an innings.
Career Highlights: His performances in earlier seasons of the IPL, where he was among the leading wicket-takers, highlight his potential and skill.
Resilience: Facing injuries and fluctuations in form, Mohit’s determination to return stronger and contribute to his team’s success exemplifies his character and resilience.

Conclusion

The most underrated players in IPL are often the backbone of their teams, delivering consistent performances and playing key roles in their successes. These players, while not always in the limelight, deserve recognition for their contributions to the league. Their stories of perseverance, skill, and critical playmaking are what make the IPL a truly competitive and thrilling tournament. As cricket enthusiasts, it’s essential to celebrate these unsung heroes who bring depth and excitement to the game, ensuring the IPL remains a showcase of not just star power but also of hidden gems.