IPL 2024 Auction: Uncovering the Top 5 Bargain Buys
The IPL Auction 2024 showcased a remarkable shift in events, presenting fans with record-breaking and surprising buys on the auction day. Each franchise endured a challenging time making decisions regarding their purchases or releases, resulting in an entertaining affair.
Some players received amounts well beyond the anticipated range, while others went for prices slightly below expectations. The outcomes are influenced by various factors, such as the order in which players are announced. However, teams that secured players with high market value at lower prices were fortunate in their acquisitions.
IPL 2024 Auction yielded five surprising buys, and here they are:
1. Wanindu Hasaranga - 1.50 Crore (Sunrisers Hyderabad)
After IPL 2023, the Royal Challengers Bangalore released the Sri Lankan leg-spinner Wanindu Hasaranga due to his inability to perform at his best, hampered by injuries. His market value was 10.75 Crores, a substantial amount for any team considering his recent injury woes. However, Hasaranga's unparalleled talent shone through in his debut season.
With an initial price of INR 1.50 Crore, Hasaranga attracted no bidders, possibly due to concerns about his injuries. Despite being named the player of the tournament in the Lanka Premier League 2023, his injury history affected his interest. Sunrisers Hyderabad took the initiative to bid for him, securing his services at the base price only—a decision that could prove excellent.
2. Rachin Ravindra - 1.80 Crore (Chennai Super Kings)
The Kiwi youngster Rachin Ravindra wreaked havoc during the World Cup in India, making it sure that he would be a high-priced pick in the auctions. Surprisingly, Ravindra did not command a significant bid, and the Chennai Super Kings secured his services for just INR 1.80 Crore.
Despite interest from Punjab Kings and Delhi Capitals, they opted out of buying him due to Rachin's youth and lack of experience. CSK secured his services for a not-so-substantial amount. This acquisition could become the most compelling if Rachin maintains the performance level he displayed in the World Cup.
3. Lockie Ferguson - 2.00 Crore (Royal Challengers Bangalore)
While many fast bowlers fetched hefty sums of money, Lockie Ferguson had the misfortune of ending up on the other side of the auctions. Despite being a right-arm fast bowler with the skill to deliver pinpoint yorkers, he initially went unsold. However, teams later acquired him based on their specific needs.
Despite having a base price of 2 Crores, he couldn't secure a higher bid, with only Royal Challengers Bangalore showing interest and ultimately acquiring him for the base price. His addition to RCB's squad is invaluable, particularly at this price point, making the team stronger as he joins the likes of Reece Topley, Siraj, and Alzarri Joseph.
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4. Shardul Thakur - 4.00 Crore (Chennai Super Kings)
The Indian bowling all-rounder Shardul Thakur has returned to the team where his career received a significant boost. Chennai Super Kings reacquired him for just INR 4 Crore, and he will don the yellow jersey in the IPL 2024, playing under the captaincy of MS Dhoni.
While many fast bowlers secured lucrative deals, including the Indian fast bowler Harshal Patel, Thakur's story could have followed a similar trajectory. However, his forgettable stint with KKR led to his release, as KKR was unwilling to invest 10.75 Crore in him. Despite having a base price of 2 Crore, Sunrisers expressed interest in acquiring him. Yet, when the bidding reached 4 Crore, they withdrew, allowing Chennai to reclaim him.
5. Gerald Coetzee - 5.00 Crore (Mumbai Indians)
Following the trend of other fast bowlers like Pat Cummins, Mitch Starc, Alzarri Joseph, Spencer Johnson, and Harshal Patel, Gerald Coetzee found himself in a similar situation. While those players secured deals well above 10 Crore, Gerald had to settle for INR 5 Crore, as Mumbai Indians shrewdly acquired him at a lower price.
Given the abilities and current form of this Protea player, he could have commanded a substantial amount. However, to everyone's surprise, he secured only this much and will be sporting the Blue and Gold in the upcoming IPL season. With Coetzee joining the team, Mumbai is set to be a formidable force in the coming season.
Conclusion -
In the riveting spectacle of the IPL 2024 Auction, the spotlight fell on the Top 5 Bargain Buys, where talent surpassed the price tag. As cricket enthusiasts await the thrilling season, stay ahead with real-time updates using the Fast Live Line app and website. Experience the excitement with dynamic cricket live line features, ensuring you never miss a moment. Become a live line guru, tracking every boundary, wicket, and milestone. Don't just watch; immerse yourself in the game with Fast Live Line – your ultimate companion for live cricket action.
