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As the fans eagerly anticipate the IPL 2024 auction scheduled for tomorrow, December 19, 2023, in Dubai, enthusiasts and franchise owners are gearing up for an event that promises excitement, strategic maneuvers, and a reshaping of team dynamics. With 333 cricketers in the fray, including 214 Indian and 119 foreign players, the stakes are high, and the competition is fierce.
Among the 333 players, a notable distinction exists between the capped and uncapped players. A total of 116 players boast international caps, while 215 are yet to don the prestigious cap. Interestingly, two players from associate countries add a global flavor to the mix, emphasizing the IPL’s status as a truly international cricketing spectacle.
However, only 77 players will have the privilege of being claimed by the 10 IPL franchises. Adding a strategic twist, 30 of these spots are exclusively reserved for international players, creating an intense bidding war for the limited foreign player slots.
The financial dynamics of the auction are equally intriguing. Thirteen players have set their base price in the 1.5 crore to 2 crore INR range, while twenty-three players have confidently opted for a 2 crore INR starting point.
In a groundbreaking move, Jio Cinema recently conducted a mock auction, offering a sneak peek into the potential strategies of franchise owners. The auction, presided over by former Chennai Super Kings batter Suresh Raina, saw a jaw-dropping move as he secured the explosive services of Australian batter Travis Head for a whopping INR 7.5 crore. This strategic acquisition hints at the intense competition expected in the actual IPL 2024 auction.
IPL 2024 Auction: Mitchell Starc Sold For 18.5 Crore To RCB; Travis Head Sold To CSK For INR 7.5 Crore
The mock auction also witnessed the presence of Mike Hesson, former director of cricket for Royal Challengers Bangalore. Representing Faf du Plessis, Hesson made headlines by acquiring the services of Australian fast bowler Mitchell Starc for a staggering INR 18.5 crore. This bold move adds an extra layer of anticipation for Starc’s participation in the real auction.
Travis Head’s inclusion in the mock auction highlights his rising stardom in the cricketing world. Known for his fearless approach at the top, Head has already left an indelible mark by scoring a match-winning century in the World Test Championship final in 2023 and the ODI World Cup in 2023, both against India. A versatile player, Head is not only an aggressive opener but also a more than handy off-spinner and an agile fielder. His exceptional track record makes him a premium commodity, and franchises are expected to vie fiercely for his services.
Mitchell Starc’s return to the IPL auction is a significant event for cricket enthusiasts. The deadly left-arm pacer, gearing up for the T20 World Cup 2024, has a reputation for shattering wickets right at the top and addressing death bowling issues with finesse. Acknowledged as one of the best fast bowlers globally, Starc’s presence in the auction adds a thrilling dimension to the proceedings.
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