Syed Mushtaq Ali Trophy offers players a final chance to impress IPL scouts

MUMBAI: For India’s aspiring cricketers, the Syed Mushtaq Ali T20 Trophy offers a final chance to catch the eye of IPL scouts ahead of the mini-auction in Goa on Dec 16. The tournament, beginning on Saturday across five venues — Kolkata, Mumbai, Mohali, Indore and Sovima in Nagaland — will also see established stars such as T20 World Cup-winning captain Suryakumar Yadav and recently retired Test pacer Mohammed Shami look to revive their international whiteball ambitions. With the tournament ending just 10 days before the auction, its timing is ideal for uncapped players hoping to secure an IPL contract. For the 10 franchises, it is an opportunity to assess emerging talent and identify potential additions to their squads.

Coming after the first leg of the Ranji Trophy, it will also test players’ ability to switch formats. Among those keen to make an impression is Prithvi Shaw, whose career has lost momentum after a promising start. Signed by Delhi Capitals last season, the opener did not get a game. Leading Maharashtra, Shaw will hope for a strong campaign to remind the franchise and selectors of his ability. Uttar Pradesh allrounder Prashant Veer, one of Chennai Super Kings ’ most expensive uncapped picks at Rs 14.2 crore at the last auction, will also be under scrutiny. One of the tournament’s biggest attractions will be 15-year-old Vaibhav Sooryavanshi, who will captain Bihar in their first two matches before joining India A for the ACC Rising Stars tournament.