IPL 2019: Spinners who can turn out to be game-changers
What's the story
The Indian Premier League (IPL) 2019 season starts from March 23 onwards and spinners will be looking to dictate the show. Only three spinners featured in the top 10 list of wicket-takers last season. However, in IPL 2019, it could all change, as there are several exciting talents out there. We look at six spinners who can be game-changers for their teams.
Rashid Khan
Rashid Khan is a contender for the Purple Cap
Rashid Khan was the leading wicket-taking spinner last season (21). Both his decisive approach and talent make him a real deal. The Afghan wrist-spinner is a trump card for Sunrisers Hyderabad and his variations and accuracy make him stand out. Khan's influence across T20 leagues has been massive and he won several matches for SRH last term. He bowled 167 dot balls last season.
Sunil Narine
Experienced Sunil Narine could be decisive for KKR
Sunil Narine's impact for Kolkata Knight Riders has been massive. The West Indian's offerings as an all-rounder make him a genuine match-winner. A re-modelled action may have made him predictable at times, but Narine can still deceive batsmen. He performed well for KKR last season and claimed 17 scalps. KKR have always been dependent on his services and Narine has stood tall and delivered.
Kuldeep Yadav
Kuldeep Yadav's stock has risen drastically
The left-arm wrist-spinner has seen his stock rise drastically for India at the international level. Kuldeep has the talent like Rashid to extract spin from any sort of surface. The confidence and maturity gained by Kuldeep will help him in delivering consistent performances in IPL 2019. Despite having an economy-rate on the higher side in IPL 11, he picked up 17 wickets.
Mujeeb Ur Rahman
Mujeeb can start from where he left in 2018
Debutant Mujeeb Ur Rahman put up a strong show for Kings XI Punjab last season. He gained prominence by being a thorn in batsmen's flesh. The off-spinner can bowl the googly to perfection and was often given the new ball. Mujeeb took 14 scalps for KXIP at an economy-rate of 6.99. Expect skipper R Ashwin to back him this term as well.
Mayank Markande
Mayank Markande is the main weapon of Mumbai Indians
Markande rose to fame after a sensational IPL season with Mumbai Indians. He picked up 15 wickets in 14 matches with a best of 4/23. Markande had a memorable debut match as he took 3 for 23 for Mumbai against Chennai Super Kings. Markande was recently handed a call-up to the Indian T20I side. In 2019, we expect him to be MI's lethal weapon.
Sandeep Lamichhane
Sandeep Lamichhane deserves a special mention
Nepal's Sandeep Lamichhane didn't get the exposure last season as he played only three matches for Delhi Capitals. But expect the spinner to be a focal point for his franchise this term. Lamichhane plied his trade in the Caribbean Premier League and then performed well in the Big Bash League for Melbourne Stars. The teenager claimed 12 scalps in BBL08.