IPL 2016: 5 surprise performers so far in this season

KL Rahul

KL Rahul has been handling the opening and wicketkeeping duties for the Royal Challengers

Lokesh Rahul’s meteoric rise through the Karnataka cricket circles has made him one of the most exciting future prospects for India. Rated highly by his decorated namesake, Rahul Dravid, Lokesh already has two centuries to his name in a short career of five Tests.

Yet, with a star-studded top order, and the presence of Sarfaraz Khan and Kedhar Jadhav in the middle, he wasn’t expected to play a major role for the RCB team. Lacklustre performances from Jadhav, both behind the stumps and with the bat, as well as Gayle’s paternity leave, gave Lokesh Rahul a window to prove his worth.

Four matches later, he has installed himself as an integral part of the team with two half-centuries at the top of the order. He has also taken over the wicketkeeping duties from Jadhav, and has been apposite, if not clinical, behind the stumps.