Just a few days back, 17th edition of IPL ended with KKR being crowned as the champions of the same. Just like every IPL, this edition also saw a lot of good individual performances from many players. Some became the talk of the town earlier in the season, some did it later. But what was pleasing to see is the fact that one got to see young and unheard Indians making their mark at a good level. After looking at the entire season, let's have a look of 7 players who are strong contenders of donning the Blue Jersey going ahead.

7) Mayank Yadav:

Reaching to a constant speed of 150+, the youngster from Delhi instantly became the talk of the town quite early in the season. To see an Indian clocking 150 clicks is a rare sight. Additionally he bowled with great accuracy and discipline, making his case even stronger. Although he could just play 4 matches, he scalped 7 wickets in those, and the one where he bowled Cameroon Green was the best out of his dismissals. With the raw pace, accuracy and discipline he possesses, he is an ideal contender for Indian team in years to come if me manages to remain injury free.

6) Ashutosh Sharma:

Not known to many early on, Ashutosh Sharma later went on become a household name owing to the finishing abilities he possesses. His blend of clean hitting and unorthodox shots was a pure joy to watch. His ability to bat well under the crunch moments with immense pressure was highly commendable. Although he scored just 189 runs in 11 matches he played, he ensured that he is coming to some use. 17 ball 31 , and the knock of 61 against Mumbai showed his intent. His story of battling depression to reach to where he did is inspiring. Knowing that the perfect finisher spot is still vacant, Ashutosh certainly has a chance to get the Blue Jersey if he continues to perform the same way.

5) Shashank Singh:

Grabbing the headlines for all the wrong reasons, the player chosen by mistake by Punjab Kings turned out to be their match winner. Mistakenly chosen by the team and trolled for the same, he made sure to turn all the trolls into his admirers. A powerful hitter of the ball, he sent the ball to different parts of the ground. The power he has in his hands allowed him to send the ball way back into the crowds. His power combined with the right intent allowed Punjab Kings to chase a mammoth total of 262 runs, which remains the highest successful chase till now. Looking at his strike rate in the matches in previous seasons, one wondered on how no one ever spoken about this bloke. And today, although the age might not favour him, but it's hard to ignore that he can be a great contender for the national team as one has seen examples like Surya who made their debuts late but were highly successful.

4) Nitish Kumar Reddy:

One of the best finds of this season was undoubtedly Nitish Kumar Reddy. A pinch hitter who can hit long sixes and accelerate run rate, and a pacer who can grab quick wickets, Reddy proved that he was worth every penny he was picked for. His pinch hitting was a cherry on the pie for the Hyderabad lineup who came out all guns blazing. And at times when his top order struggled, he ensured that the momentum is not lost. His heroics in the IPL also sought him to be the highest paid player in Andhra Premier League. With the skills he has, and with the age favouring him massively, it's a much likely possibility to see him play for Men in Blue in near future

3) Harshit Rana:

The bowler who became a household name for his celebration in the first match he played, Harshit Rana later went on to significantly contribute to his team's success. A bowler who has natural aggression and who can get better while being aggressive is someone Indian missed. And he fills that void perfectly. Fined for his animated gestures, he then decided to stay quiet during celebration and perform more with his bowling. A result of which he grabbed a total of 19 wickets in, and this season and had a huge share in KKR's success in clinching on to the title, with his significant spell in the finals as well. India missed someone like Shreesanth, who put the opposition on back foot, and Rana can be the perfect person to fill the shoes making him a strong contender for the Blue Jersey.

2) Riyan Parag:

Perhaps a popular name on the internet from the past few seasons due to all wrong reasons, Riyan Parag made sure that he is silencing all his critics this time. An evolved version of himself saw the best of him in this season. A contender of Orange cap, he hit some of the most eye pleasing shots of the season and contributed to his team's success massively. He replaced power with timing and elegance. He became more grounded and humble, and he started giving his critics answers from his on field achievements. Living up to the faith and expectations of his franchise, he scored a total of whopping 573 runs this season which included 33 sixes and 40 fours. He showcased an upgraded version of himself in the best possible way which was loved by every cricket fan. And if it continues to happen for some more time, sooner or later one can see him representing the Indian team.

1) Abhishek Sharma:

Without a doubt, Abhishek Sharma tops the list of players to watch out for future. With his sublime hitting, he launched a scathing attack on all the bowling units in this IPL. He gave the ideal start for his team along with Travis Head. A chase of 167 runs in 9.4 overs, a start of 125 runs off the 6 overs, and many such alien innings were a result of his carnage. His ruthlessness is evident from the fact that his slowest fifty came in 21 deliveries. Its a phenomenal achievement to score 487 runs in a season when he didn't face more than 30 balls in any of the matches. With a staggering 42 sixes in the tournament, he is not just knocking the door of selection, but is now trying to break it down with his sensational performances. And there is hardly any doubt that the southpaw mentored by Yuvraj Singh deserves to be in the Indian squad more than anyone else. He stands tall amongst all the contenders for the hunt of Blue Jersey, which possibly he'll get sooner after the 2024 T20 World Cup.

Who are your favourites out of these? Do let us know in the comments below.