Five IPL franchises could target TNPL speedster Deepesh Devendran
The 18-year-old's raw pace and recent youth cricket exploits have put him on the radar for the 2027 auction.
A young fast bowler from the Tamil Nadu Premier League is turning heads with his raw speed. Deepesh Devendran, who represents the Madurai Panthers, has consistently clocked over 140 kmph in the current TNPL season, occasionally touching 146 kmph. His ability to generate extra bounce makes him a rare find in Indian domestic cricket.
Devendran's progress is backed by strong performances in age-group cricket. He was part of India's victorious Under-19 World Cup squad, claiming six wickets in five games, including two in the final against England. Earlier, he topped the wicket charts at the Under-19 Asia Cup with 14 scalps in five matches. A tour of Australia also showcased his potential, as he took ten wickets, including a five-wicket haul in the first Youth Test in Brisbane.
In six TNPL outings for Madurai Panthers, his figures have been modest, but franchises are looking beyond the numbers. The investment is about grooming a bowler who can eventually hit 145 kmph consistently. Mumbai Indians, known for nurturing young Indian pacers, are among the sides likely to show interest. Other franchises with a similar development focus could also join the race for the teenager's services in the IPL 2027 auction.