IPL 2018: 5 uncapped players who might receive a national call up

The Indian Premier League is not only about glitz and glamour, it is not only about big names performing on the big stage, but it is also an opportunity for unknown players to step up and perform in perhaps the biggest league in the world.

Over the years, the Indian selectors have kept a keen eye on the IPL performances and have not hesitated in roping in raw talent for the national team. Although there have been mixed results, this is a practice which should not be done away with.

We take a look at five such uncapped players from this edition of the IPL who might get the nod to play for India in the near future.

#5 Mayank Markande

The young leg-spinner from Bhatinda has made head turns in this IPL with his unnerving leg spin and brilliant accuracy.

From getting the scalps of MS Dhoni and the rest, Markande has already been hailed as the find of the season for the Mumbai Indians.

While he is only 20 years old, he has given enough indication of his skills and temperament. Being a wrist spinner only adds to his resume, one that might tempt the selectors to take a punt on him.

#4 Siddarth Kaul

The Sunrisers Hyderabad bowler has been a quiet performer for the franchise over the past few years and this year he is perhaps one of their best bets.

He hits the deck and brings a lot of bustle to the crease and has added a plethora of variations to his arsenal, the knuckleball being the main one. Kaul seems to be ready to take the next step and what stands out is his attitude and positive approach towards the game.

He also has first-class experience and the selectors should look towards him with keen interest.

#3 Krunal Pandya

Krunal has been a consistent performer for the Mumbai Indians over the past few seasons and has also been included in the India A team.

However, this season, he seems to have grown as a player and has taken up more responsibility, both with the bat and ball and this might just convince the selectors to take a punt on him.

As Ravindra Jadeja fades away from the limited-overs team, Pandya might be the all-round option the Indian team can do with in the shortest format.

#2 Nitish Rana

The Delhi boy has been a revelation for the Kolkata Knight Riders this season. He has added solidity to the top order and has shown enough for people to be convinced that he can take the next step.

Depending on the situation, he can play defensively and then if the need arises, can be far more expansive with this strokes.

Also, he has an unflappable temperament which adds an additional cog to the wheel.

And then, there is his uncanny off break which has already picked up few crucial wickets in the tournament.

#1 Mayank Agarwal

After a sensational first-class season with Karnataka, Mayank Agarwal has been decent for Kings XI Punjab at the top of the order.

Although he has not managed to churn out any score of substance, he has looked a million dollars with his bright 20s and 30s.

The onus will now be on Agarwal to play a couple of big innings to solidify his claims for the Indian team, but after a stellar first-class season, the selectors are surely keeping an eye out for him.

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