IPL 2018: One player from each team who can earn a call up to the Indian team

Kolkata Knight Riders: Nitish Rana

Nitish Rana is a stylish left-handed batsman

Nitish Rana could have been most satisfied with his feat of picking up the wickets of two of international cricket's most legendary batsmen of modern times, off consecutive deliveries, in IPL 2018. And yet he has so much more to savour this season.

After turning out for Mumbai last year, Rana, who was picked up by KKR this year, has provided the KKR batting order with the much-needed solidity in the middle order. His presence has played the role of that of an anchor as the aggressive Russell, Lynn, Narine and Uthappa can express themselves completely.

Playing the sheet anchor, he also scores his runs at a quick pace and is one of the most dependable batsmen in this year's IPL. The stylish left-hander may have a long way as far as national selection is concerned, but he is taking all the right steps in that direction in the ongoing IPL season.