IPL unearths next gen of fast bowlers, potential captain

Hardik Pandya. In his first full season for Hyderabad, Umran Malik attracted the world's attention with his ability to clock 150kmph plus with ease, also forcing the Indian selectors to take notice while young left-arm pacer Mohsin Khan impressed with a lethal combination of pace and accuracy for the new Lucknow franchise.

Read AlsoSunil Gavaskar feels Hardik Pandya has emerged as a contender for India captaincy

Impressed by Hardik Pandya's "leadership qualities" in IPL 15, batting legend Sunil Gavaskar feels the star all-rounder has emerged as a strong contender to lead the Indian team in near future. Making a comeback after a subdued outing in the T20 World Cup last year, Hardik captained Gujarat Titans

The competition reinforced India's rise as a fast-bowling powerhouse with the likes of Mukesh Choudhary, Simarjeet Singh (both Chennai Super Kings), Yash Dayal (Gujarat Titans) and Kuldeep Sen (Rajasthan Royals) also making their presence felt in the world's biggest T20 league. There were young batters too who instantly showed they belonged to the higher level. They included Mumbai Indians' Tilak Varma who was praised by none other than his captain Rohit Sharma, who called the southpaw an India material. Then there was Jitesh Sharma who drew praise from India great Virender Sehwag with his exploits as a wicketkeeper batter for Punjab Kings. His team failed to make the play-offs again but he made the most of the opportunity. The other uncapped batters who may not be new to the IPL but had a memorable season included Hyderabad's Rahul Tripathi, who was unfortunate to miss out on an India call-up and Abhishek Sharma, who excelled as an opener.

Read AlsoIf India need a captain in a couple of years I wouldn't look past