The most awaited Tata IPL 2024 mini-auction will be held in Dubai on December 19 2023. It is for the first time, the auction is scheduled to take place in an overseas venue.
Most big names in international cricket have got themselves registered for the mini-auctions. Amongst the 77 remaining slots, 30 are for the overseas players. All 10 teams are trying to make their squad the mightiest. As Dubai's Coca-Cola Arena is set to become the point of attraction for cricket fans, let’s look at the expected big buys of the auction.
1. Rachin Ravindra
In spite of his Rs 50 lakh base price, the Kiwi sensation Rachin Ravindra would be one of the big fishes in the pool. With his spectacular performances in the ODI World Cup 2023, Ravindra is the hot property of the cricketing world.
According to the former Indian international Irfan Pathan, the fate of Sunrisers Hyderabad (SRH) to stay in the second half of the points table would be erased if the 24-year-old Rachin reaches their squad.
2. Travis Head
The Aussie is likely to have gained the attention of multiple teams after the major "headache" he caused for the Indian bowlers at the World Cup summit clash. Head's breathtaking hundred at Ahmedabad ensured Australia chased down the target to lift the title. His former IPL team, Royal Challengers Bangalore (RCB) are among the major bidders likely to go after the wicket-keeper batter.
3. Wanindu Hasaranga
Even though they have released him, the Sri Lankan star would still be targeted by his former team Royal Challengers Bangalore (RCB). If speculations on social media are to be trusted, the reigning champions, Chennai Super Kings (CSK) are also targeting him to make their spin department more lethal.
4. Pat Cummins
The Aussie captain would be a great purchase for any team. His heroics in the recent ODI World Cup were acknowledged by most of the cricketing experts. The teams longing for his service include his former team Kolkata Knight Riders (KKR) and Gujarat Titans who would be playing under their new captain Shubman Gill. A proven mastermind like Cummins would make his job easier for youngster Gill who gears up for his first leadership stint in IPL.
5. Daryl Mitchell
The standout performer for New Zealand at the World Cup would be one of the greatest picks of IPL 2024. His power hitting, especially the century against India in the semi-finals was one of the finest innings of the tournament. The major franchises pouncing for him would be the Mumbai Indians and SRH as they look to bolster their team balance.
The auctions might also witness the presence of a lady auctioneer as BCCI has dropped Hugh Edmeads as the auctioneer after 5 years.