The Indian Premier League (IPL) has long served as a platform for aspiring cricketers to showcase their talent, and recent seasons have further reinforced its status as a direct pathway to the Indian national team. Several players, through their standout performances in the IPL, have earned a coveted spot in the national squad. Here’s a look at five players whose IPL journeys propelled them into the Indian team.
1. Abhishek Sharma – The Explosive Opener
Abhishek Sharma had a breakthrough IPL 2024 season, amassing 484 runs in 16 matches at a staggering strike rate of 204.22. His fearless approach made him one of the most dangerous hitters in the tournament, smashing a record 42 sixes—the highest by any player that season.
With an average of 32.27, Abhishek consistently provided explosive starts for Sunrisers Hyderabad (SRH) and played a key role in their batting lineup. He also registered the fastest fifty for SRH against Mumbai Indians, further proving his ability to dominate bowling attacks. He finished as SRH’s second-highest run-scorer, only behind Travis Head.
His exceptional IPL campaign earned him a spot in the Indian T20 squad for the Zimbabwe series, where he made an immediate impact by scoring a century in his very first match. Despite some inconsistency, Abhishek continued to receive backing from the team management. He eventually showcased his potential on the big stage by smashing the second-fastest T20I hundred for India against England in 2025.
2. Rinku Singh – India’s Ultimate Finisher
Rinku Singh had a stellar IPL 2023 season for Kolkata Knight Riders (KKR), scoring 474 runs at an average of 59.25 and a strike rate of 149.52. He registered four half-centuries, with his highest score being an unbeaten 67 off 33 balls against Lucknow Super Giants.
One of his most iconic moments came against Gujarat Titans, where he smashed five sixes in five balls, cementing his reputation as a clutch finisher. He was particularly dominant in run-chases, scoring 305 runs at an astonishing average of 152.50 and a strike rate of 174.28.
His consistent IPL performances earned him a place in the Indian team. He made his T20I debut against Ireland in August 2023, followed by an ODI debut against South Africa in December 2023. As of March 2025, Rinku has played 33 T20Is, scoring 546 runs at an average of 42.00 and a strike rate of 161.06, with a highest score of 69*. His ability to handle pressure has made him a crucial middle-order batter for India.
3. Shivam Dube – The Power-Hitting All-Rounder
Shivam Dube played a pivotal role for Chennai Super Kings (CSK) in IPL 2024, scoring 396 runs in 14 matches at an impressive average of 36.00 and a strike rate of 162.30. He registered three half-centuries, with his highest score being an unbeaten 66. His aggressive batting style saw him strike 28 fours and 28 sixes.
His standout IPL season earned him a place in India’s T20 squad for the 2024 T20 World Cup. In the final against South Africa in Barbados, he played a crucial knock when India was struggling at 103/4. Partnering with Virat Kohli, Dube scored a quickfire 27 off 16 balls, striking three sixes and a four at a strike rate of 168—the highest for an Indian batter in the match. His 57-run partnership with Kohli helped India post a competitive total of 176, which ultimately led to their triumph.
Dube’s performance in the final silenced his critics and cemented his place as a dependable power-hitter in India’s T20 setup.
4. Varun Chakravarthy – The Mystery Spinner’s Comeback
Varun Chakravarthy continued to be a key figure in KKR’s bowling attack in IPL 2024. Over 15 matches, he bowled 50 overs, conceding 402 runs while picking up 21 wickets.
His impressive IPL form carried over into the 2025 ICC Champions Trophy, where he delivered a record-breaking performance in his debut match against New Zealand. His five-wicket haul led India to a dominant 44-run victory, marking the best-ever bowling figures by an Indian debutant in the tournament.
In the Champions Trophy final in Dubai, despite a pitch offering little assistance to spinners, Chakravarthy dismissed key batsmen Will Young and Glenn Phillips, finishing with figures of 2 for 45 in his 10 overs. His efforts were crucial in restricting New Zealand to a manageable total, helping India secure the title.
5. Harshit Rana – The Emerging Pace Sensation
Harshit Rana was one of the most impressive pacers in IPL 2024. Playing for KKR, he claimed 19 wickets in 13 matches, making him the team’s joint-second-highest wicket-taker and the fourth-highest wicket-taker overall in the tournament.
Rana stood out as the leading wicket-taker among uncapped Indian players that season. His ability to bowl effectively in all phases of the game was commendable, particularly in the death overs, where he maintained an economy rate of 9.85.
His outstanding IPL season earned him a call-up to the Indian national team. Rana was later selected as Jasprit Bumrah’s replacement for the 2025 ICC Champions Trophy after Bumrah was ruled out due to a back injury. His selection underscored the selectors’ confidence in his ability to perform at the highest level.
The IPL has once again proven to be a game-changer for young and talented cricketers aspiring to wear the Indian jersey. The performances of players like Abhishek Sharma, Rinku Singh, Shivam Dube, Varun Chakravarthy, and Harshit Rana highlight how the tournament serves as a launchpad for future stars. With every passing season, the IPL continues to shape India’s cricketing future, ensuring a steady influx of talent into the national team.
