The fifth edition of the Tamil Nadu Premier League, which concluded on Sunday with Chepauk Super Gillies winning their third crown, saw players across the eight teams delivering top-class performances. Here are five of them who have come up with consistent shows through the course of the competition.
Hari Nishaanth: Dindigul Dragons skipper Hari Nishaanth brought solidity at the top for his side. The southpaw, who registered four fifties in 9 innings, gave a sturdy start to his side on almost every occasion in the tournament. He not only played the aggressor’s role well but was equally adept at being the accumulator as and when the situation demanded.
M: 9; Runs: 368; SR: 131.89
Sai Sudharsan: The 19-year-old from Lyca Kovai Kings made an instant impact in his maiden TNPL season. The left-hander lit up the event by hitting a 43-ball 87 against Salem Spartans in his debut game. The youngster only got better as the tournament progressed. He not only possesses all the shots in the book but also has a calm head to negotiate the tough periods of play.
M: 8; Runs: 358; SR: 143.77
Nidhish Rajagopal: The left-hander from Ruby Trichy Warriors didn’t have the best of starts to the season as he had two ducks in his first three outings. But from thereon, Nidhish was among runs each time he batted. Nidhish impressed everyone with his ability to bat according to the situation. Nidhish’s consistent run with the willow in the latter half of the tournament was instrumental in helping Trichy make its maiden final.
M: 9; Runs: 306; SR: 120.94
P Saravana Kumar: The 31-year-old allrounder from Ruby Trichy Warriors was the leading wicket-taker with 13 wickets. Be it Powerplay or at the death overs, the medium-pacer managed to keep the batsmen in check. To top that, Saravana Kumar — who has a reputation of playing the big shots — kept Trichy in the chase against Super Gillies in the final with an unbeaten 25-ball 45. Despite not finishing on the winning side, Saravana Kumar’s performance definitely caught the attention of many.
M:9; Runs: 82; W: 13; Eco: 7.84
M Mathivanan: The 20-year-old left-arm spinner was the find of the season. Turning up for Ruby Trichy Warriors, Mathivanan made an impact — be it with the ball or through his sharp fielding. From 9 games in his debut season, Mathivanan bagged 10 wickets. More importantly, he kept a tight leash on the batsmen with an economy of 5.80. He also enthralled many with his athleticism on the field.
