5 youngsters who have shone in the first 2 weeks of HIL

The main motive of the Hockey India League (HIL) has always been to give the talented youngsters an opportunity to shine on the biggest platform. The league has given the junior players a chance to play against the best in the business. Players like Mandeep Singh, Manpreet Singh got recognized because of their breakthrough performances in the league. The young guns haven't disappointed either as they are firing on all cylinders. Let us take a look at five of those promising players:

#5 Harmanpreet Singh

New kid on the block: Harmanpreet Singh

At Just 19 years of age, he has already become the vital cog of the Dabang Mumbai team shouldering the critical responsibilty of short corners. He first came into prominence last year when his couple of hat-tricks helped the U-21 side capture the Sultan Johor Cup. Aware of his talent, the Mumbai team snapped him in the auction and would now be happy with their decision. His tidy work at the back is the reason why Mumbai outfit have conceded frugally and are looking solid at the backline.

In addition, his fierce drag-flicks and a sound nous for the game shows that the boy is cut out for bigger things in the future.

#4 Akashdeep Singh

The reliable soldier of Delhi Waveriders

No surprise here. The rising star of the Indian national team is again at his usual best with three goals already under his belt. Despite a floundering start by his team, he hasn’t let it get to his nerves and is delivering the goods once more.

For the past one year, Akashdeep has become the mainstay of the Indian National team with a string of consistent performances. Adjudged as the most promising player in last year’s champions trophy, he is living upto his billing with dominant display of hockey for the Delhi outfit. He has a knack for scoring all important goals and pounces on every opportunity for scoring like a hungry wolf.

Alas! his teammates have not been able to replicate their last year’s form and are looking out of sorts. Waveriders’ players ought to raise their level a notch up and complement this gifted youngster if they wish to retain the title.

#3 Nikkin Thimmaiah

Nikkin in action against Ranchi

The coorg lad is the other reason why U.P. Wizards have been doing so well this year. He seems to have a telepathic understanding with Ramandeep and both guys are creating havoc in the opposition’s defence. The mazy dribbles of Nikkin has got the rival defenders on the edge who are unable to decide his footwork and movements. His rapidly changes his body motions and is slippery as an eel.

However, there are some flip sides to his game which the youngster needs to improve. He often over-dribbles which results in team losing the ball possession and also has a penchant for going all out alone rather than passing a teammate. It is these finer aspects of the game that he needs to polish in order to cement his postion in the national side.

By and large, the boy has the temperament to become the very best in this business. He definitely is a player to look out for in the future.

#2 Affan Yousuf

The little genius of Jaypee Punjab Warriors

Jaypee Punjab Warriors have mesmerized everyone with their game and wins this season. They are looking like a force to reckon with and are the team to beat in the tourney. Sitting comfortably at the top of the pile, a semi-final spot seems to be inevitable for them. Although every player has contributed in equal measure, one young gentlemen is again turning out to be the pick of the lot. Affan Yousuf, as expected, is putting up a tremendous show exhibiting wide variety of hockey skills and sublime first touches. Similar to last year, the Bhopal boy has kept the ball rolling with his consistent performances.

Despite of his diminutive figure, the nimble-footed player challenges the rival players head-on and never shies away from an impossible attempt at goal.

The lad is a pure genius and has a great future if he continues in the same vein.

#1 Ramandeep Singh

Ramandeep celebrates after a goal

His receding hairline does give a picture of a player in his thirties, but beware looks can be deceptive. The young Indian forward is just 21 years old, but he is playing like a veteran with tons of experience.The talented lad is our number One choice in this list because of the sheer amount of work he has put in for the U.P. Wizards in the first two weeks. He has been involved in almost every chance created for the team and has got the opponents defence guessing with his fleet movements. An astute forward, Ramandeep’s off the ball work rate is impressive.

His industrious effort upfront has eased the pressure in the midfield & defence.He alongwith Nikkin and S.K. Uthappa have formed a triumvirate attacking unit which has rattled the rival defenders.If he carries on this menacing form, he surely can help the Wizards go the distance this season.