CHENNAI: It’s time for audition ahead of IPL auctions on Dec 16. The Syed Mushtaq Ali Trophy provides the stage for players around the country to announce themselves to the franchises and Tamil Nadu players are no exception. TN begin their campaign in Indore on Saturday against Railways, with several players keen to turn their performances into an IPL contract.TN have been placed in Elite Group B alongside some formidable domestic sides, including Delhi and Punjab. Bihar, led by teenage batting sensation Vaibhav Sooryavanshi, Haryana, Jammu & Kashmir and Saurashtra complete the group. With several competitive fixtures ahead, the tournament will provide TN players with a strong platform to showcase their T20 credentials.Among the players attracting attention are top order batters B Sachin and Tushar Raheja. Sachin enjoyed an impressive Tamil Nadu Premier League season, accumulating 428 runs at an average of 53.50 and a strike rate of 160.9. His progress also draws comparisons with TN’s Sai Sudharsan, who has established himself in the Indian team after consistently delivering for Gujarat Titans in the IPL.Raheja, meanwhile, offers an equally exciting proposition. The wicketkeeper-batter scored 422 runs at an average of 70.33 and a remarkable strike rate of 190.09, including a century and three half-centuries. His ability to provide aggressive starts could make him an attractive option for franchises looking to strengthen their top order. He was also the leading run-getter in the previous TNPL season with 488 runs, underlining his consistency for Tiruppur Tamizhans.Veteran wicketkeeper-opener N Jagadeesan could also come into consideration for franchises seeking experience. Having last featured in the IPL for Kolkata Knight Riders in 2023, Jagadeesan has worked on his batting technique under Robin Uthappa, who has recently taken up the batting coach’s role at Mumbai Indians. Lucknow Super Giants, who have released Rishabh Pant, could explore their wicketkeeping options. With Nicholas Pooran and Josh Inglis being the only overseas wicketkeeping options, LSG could explore the domestic market for another option. Inglis’ availability could also be a concern, with Australia’s international commitments, including the Ashes, potentially keeping him occupied next year.For franchises looking to reinforce their pace attack, Athisayaraj Davidson could be one to watch. The local pacer could be a good option for Chennai Super Kings, who have released Khaleel Ahmed. Davidson impressed in the TNPL with his yorkers and maintained an economy rate of 7.2. With TN playing their group matches in Indore, where the relatively small boundaries could challenge bowlers, his ability to execute at the death will be closely watched.Andre Siddarth is another name who could attract interest. Already enjoying a productive red-ball season, he demonstrated his temperament in the TNPL final, smashing 82 off 47 balls to help Kovai Kings clinch the title. Having been part of CSK in 2025 without getting a game, the middle-order batter could appeal to franchises such as GT and LSG looking for stability and finishing options.
