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The 17th edition of the Indian Premier League (IPL) concluded with Kolkata Knight Riders (KKR) lifting the prestigious trophy. The Shreyas Iyer-led KKR completely dominated the proceedings in the summit clash against Sunrisers Hyderabad (SRH) at MA Chidambaram Stadium in Chennai. After bundling out the 2016 IPL winners for 113, KKR completed the chase in 10.3 overs and won their third IPL title.
Sunil Gavaskar picks his Team of the Tournament
There is no denial in saying that IPL 2024 witnessed some incredible individual performances. From top class batting to high skilled bowling, the recently-concluded cash-rich league saw some outstanding performances. While it is a bit challenging to choose the best players of the tournament, former India captain and legendary broadcaster Sunil Gavaskar has recently named his team of tournament from IPL 2024.
Star openers
Virat Kohli: The talismanic batter, once again proved his mettle with consistent performances throughout the season. Known for his ability to anchor the innings and accelerate when needed, Kohli’s impressive batting was pivotal for his team’s success. He earned the Orange Cap in the 17th season of the cash-rich league.
Sunil Narine: Narine’s role as an opener brought an aggressive edge to KKR’s batting. With his explosive hitting in the powerplay, Narine often provided quick starts that put opposition teams under pressure. Additionally, his ability to contribute with the ball made him a valuable asset. No wonder, Narine got the Most Valuable Player (MVP) award this season.
Solid Middle order
Sanju Samson: The Rajasthan Royals (RR) skipper showcased his leadership skills and batting prowess throughout the season. He was a crucial link between the openers and the middle order, often stabilizing the innings and accelerating the scoring when needed. His quick scoring and ability to handle pressure were key assets for his team.
Sai Sudharsan: The Gujarat Titans (GT) star emerged as a promising talent in the middle order, making significant contributions with the bat. His composure and technique stood out in critical situations, allowing him to build crucial partnerships and steer his team out of tricky spots.
Heinrich Klaasen: The Sunrisers Hyderabad (SRH) batter’s power-hitting and consistency earned him a spot in Gavaskar’s team. Batting in the middle order, Klaasen’s ability to turn games around with his aggressive batting was a highlight of the season. He often played the role of a finisher, providing his team with much-needed impetus in the latter stages of the innings.
Nicholas Pooran: Pooran’s aggressive batting and versatility for Lucknow Super Giants (LSG) made him a valuable player in the middle order. His ability to clear boundaries with ease added depth to the batting lineup. Pooran’s presence in the middle overs ensured that his team maintained a high scoring rate and momentum.
Abhishek Sharma: Abhishek impressed with his all-round performances, contributing significantly with both bat and ball for Sunrisers. His ability to score quick runs at the top for SRH and partnerships with Travis Head was the key behind SRH’s journey to IPL 2024 finals.
Also READ: Matthew Hayden picks his IPL 2024 Team of the Tournament; names Sunil Narine and Travis Head as openers
Dynamic all-rounders
Andre Russell: Russell, known for his explosive batting and impactful bowling, once again demonstrated why he is one of the most feared all-rounders in T20 cricket. His ability to hit towering sixes and bowl crucial overs, especially in pressure situations, made him an indispensable part of his team. He played a major role behind KKR’s title win this season.
Shivam Dube: Dube’s big-hitting abilities for Chennai Super Kings (CSK) were so impressive that it earned him a spot in the Indian team for the T20 World Cup 2024. His contributions in the middle order were crucial for his side, often rescuing the team from precarious positions with his aggressive batting. Though he didn’t bowl but is expected to deliver the all-round role for Team India.
Ravindra Jadeja: Jadeja’s all-round capabilities were on full display this season. His brilliant fielding, consistent bowling, and handy batting made him an indispensable asset. Jadeja’s ability to change the course of a match with his all-round skills was a key factor in his inclusion in Gavaskar’s team.
Brilliant bowlers
Jasprit Bumrah: Bumrah’s exceptional bowling, especially in the death overs, was super impressive. His accuracy, pace, and ability to deliver yorkers at will made him a standout performer, consistently putting the brakes on the opposition’s scoring. Though Mumbai Indians (MI) performed poorly in IPL 2024, Bumrah’s bowling exhibition was nothing short of extraordinary.
Kuldeep Yadav: Kuldeep’s spin bowling was a key factor in several matches for Delhi Capitals (DC). His ability to take crucial wickets and maintain pressure on the batters was vital for his team’s bowling attack. Kuldeep’s variations and control made him a difficult bowler to face.
T Natarajan: Natarajan’s accurate yorkers and ability to bowl under pressure were highlights of his performance for the Sunrisers. Known for his exceptional death bowling, Natarajan played a crucial role in the death overs, often turning the tide in favor of his team.
Pat Cummins: SRH skipper Cummins’ pace and bounce troubled many batters throughout the season. His aggressive bowling and ability to pick up early wickets made him a key player in the powerplay, often setting the tone for his team’s bowling performance.
Arshdeep Singh: Arshdeep’s consistent bowling performances, especially in the powerplay and death overs, earned him a place in Gavaskar’s team. His ability to handle pressure situations and deliver crucial breakthroughs was commendable, making him a reliable bowler for Punjab Kings (PBKS).
