5 Players To Watch Out For In SMAT 2024-25 Quarter Finals

Jatin

5 Players To Watch Out For In SMAT QFs [Source: @varmaaa_/x.com]5 Players To Watch Out For In SMAT QFs [Source: @varmaaa_/x.com]

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The Syed Mushtaq Ali Trophy 2024 has reached its business end - the quarterfinals. After some intense group battles and pre-quarterfinal drama, eight teams remain in contention to lift the coveted trophy.

With the SMAT quarterfinals slated to be played on December 11 in Bengaluru, fans are gearing up for a day full of high-voltage matches filled with some thrilling T20 cricket.

From Bengal to Mumbai, every side has its standout performers who’ve carried them this far. Here’s a look at the top five players to watch out for in SMAT quarter-finals.

5. Jitesh Sharma (Vidarbha)

Vidarbha’s Jitesh Sharma has been a run-scoring machine with a strike rate that makes bowlers lose sleep: 229.62, the second-best in the tournament. The new RCB recruit is not just clearing the ropes, he’s demolishing attacks.

Jitesh’s knack for stepping up when it matters most has been a highlight for Vidarbha. Against Mumbai, a team brimming with talent, Jitesh’s fearless batting could make all the difference. If Vidarbha is to pull off an upset, Jitesh will need to unleash his full power.

4. Kumar Kartikeya (Madhya Pradesh)

They say spinners win you games in the middle overs, and Madhya Pradesh’s Kumar Kartikeya is proof of that. With 15 wickets in just seven games, he’s been their go-to guy this season whenever the going has gotten tough.

His economy of 7.10 shows he’s not just picking wickets; he’s also keeping it tight. Kartikeya, who was bought by Rajasthan Royals during the recent IPL 2025 auction, will be licking his lips at the chance to rattle Saurashtra, a team known for its tactical gameplay. If Kartikeya gets into his rhythm, he could spin Madhya Pradesh to the semis.


3. Rinku Singh (Uttar Pradesh)

Rinku Singh has been a stand out performer for Uttar Pradesh, batting like he owns the crease. With 267 runs in seven innings an incredible average of 89.00 and a strike rate of 152.57, he’s been the man for tough chases. Rinku’s confidence and calmness under pressure have been the stuff of legends this season.

Against Delhi’s experienced bowling unit, Rinku’s ability to pace the innings will be crucial. If the game gets tight, you can bet Rinku will be there to steady the ship or finish things off in style.

2. Abhishek Porel (Bengal)

When it comes to setting the tone, Abhishek Porel is Bengal’s go-to man. With 313 runs and three fifties to his name at a strike rate of 158.08, Porel has been nothing short of sensational. His fearless batting at the top has given Bengal the starts they’ve needed to dominate games.

Against Baroda, a team that doesn’t hold back and currently in sensational form, Porel will have to dig deep and bring his A-game. His ability to anchor and accelerate will be the key to Bengal’s chances in the first quarterfinal.

1. Shreyas Iyer (Mumbai)

Shreyas Iyer is not just Mumbai’s captain, but their talisman. With 278 runs in six games at a staggering strike rate of 200.00, Iyer has led from the front. His unbeaten 130 earlier in the tournament against Goa showed why he’s one of the most reliable batters in Indian cricket.

Mumbai faces Vidarbha in what could be a high-scoring thriller, and all eyes will be on Iyer to deliver. His ability to shift gears seamlessly makes him a nightmare for bowlers.