In recent years, any performance in domestic cricket will get linked to the IPL auctions. More so, when the mega-auctions are around the corner. This is because all teams will be starting afresh. On that note, in this article, we take a look at five performers from Vijay Hazare Trophy 2021 who could land big contracts in the upcoming IPL Mega Auctions.
With two new teams coming in, there will be at least fourteen Indian cricketers who will get consistent chances in the competition. This also means that the franchises may not get the desired players at the auctions. Hence, scouting becomes an important aspect. A useful criterion could be to look at the players who have done well in recent months.
1) Shahrukh Khan
Games – 8 || Runs – 253 || Strike Rate – 186
Shahrukh Khan is one of the performers from Vijay Hazare Trophy 2021 who could land big contracts in the upcoming IPL Mega Auctions. Although he does not feature in the list of highest run-getters, in terms of impact, very few come close to Shahrukh. Almost in every game, he has produced a knock under pressure at a high strike rate. This has helped Tamil Nadu do well when they were down. Shahrukh also has experience playing in IPL. Therefore, quite a few teams would line up for him at the IPL 2022 Mega Auctions.
2) Rishi Dhawan
Games – 8 || Runs – 458 || Wickets – 17
Rishi Dhawan is one name that will get a lot of interest at the auctions. In the 2021 Vijay Hazare Trophy, Rishi stands at No.2 in the list of both the highest run-getters and the highest wicket-takers. With the bat, like in the final, Rishi has done a great job under pressure in the middle-order. As a bowler, he has provided crucial breakthroughs for his team. A seam-bowling Indian all-rounder is rated highly in IPL. Rishi himself was once at the centre of a bidding war at the auctions. That could repeat in February.
3) Rinku Singh
Games – 7 || Runs – 379 || Average – 94.75
Rinku Singh has not got opportunities in IPL due to other players operating at his spot. Recently, he has also been troubled by injuries. However, for Uttar Pradesh this season, he has been consistent. He has scored runs at a brisk pace as well. A middle-order batter of good quality is important for an IPL squad construction. Being a left-hander, Rinku will provide more incentive. Hence, he could bag a big contract at the auctions.
4) Washington Sundar
Games – 7 || Wickets – 16 || Average – 17.93
Washington Sundar is also one of the performers from Vijay Hazare Trophy 2021 who could land big contracts in the upcoming IPL Mega Auctions. Washi has done well in IPL in the past but is now not in the news because he is yet to return to the Indian team after his injury. However, considering the age and skills that he possesses, he is sure to go for a big sum at the auctions. Adding to this, he did well in the recent VHT, which will add more value to his stocks.
5) KS Bharat
Games – 5 || Runs – 370 || Average – 92.50
KS Bharat came onto the scene after a fine show for RCB in IPL 2021. He has followed it up with a good performance in the recent VHT. Since every team needs an Indian keeper, Bharat will be in demand. He is also someone who is ready to be part of the playing XI. Hence, he could find a few bidders at the auction.
