Express takes a look at the performances of some batsmen known more for their compact techniques and exploits in longer formats...
KL Rahul
Another player who has raised his game this time, after a middling show last year. Rahul burst onto the scene with good shows in the 2013/14 Ranji season for Karnataka, and with his solid technique and temperament, is considered ideal for Tests. But he has been a revelation this IPL, providing RCB with middle-order stability, and amassing 386 runs in 13 games at 48.25.
Karun Nair
In a team that changed its starting XI every game, Karun was among only three players to play all matches, and that puts in perspective the promise showed by the young batsman. After scoring 68, he had a mini-slump, before recovering to strike 41 and 83 not out and finished with 357 runs at 35.70. He impressed with his boundary-hitting ability as well.
Hashim Amla
Was labelled a Test batsman early in his career, but perspectives changed after he made oodles of runs in shorter formats. The South Africa opener, who boasts a good T20I record — 1008 runs in 37 games at 31.50 — had a roller-coaster season. After a couple of poor scores for KXIP, made a swashbuckling 96 off 56 balls, albeit in a losing cause. Made 30 in his last game.
Ajinkya Rahane
Jinks, as he is known in the Indian dressing room, was consistent once again with 480 runs, including six half-centuries. Picking up from where he left off last year, he gave Pune Supergiants solid starts, and also played the anchor role to perfection.
Murali Vijay
Scored 453 runs in 14 matches, with five half-centuries, and was highest scorer for his team, and one of the bright spots in a disastrous campaign. Vijay did well for CSK in his early years as an opener, and hit two centuries in 2010 and 2012. However, he has been more focussed on his Test career of late, and has cemented his spot in the national team with his gritty, and orthodox, batting. A sweet timer of the ball, Vijay’s IPL career has received a boost with his shows this year.