Following the 2023 World Cup, it’s surprising that Travis Head remained unsold in the IPL 2023 auction. Additionally, it’s astonishing that he has only played 10 IPL matches, the most recent being six years ago.
However, the IPL is known for recruiters having short-term memories, and Head’s inconsistent performance in 2022 likely contributed to not securing a contract in IPL 2023 with a base price of ₹2 crore. The situation has now turned around in six months.
Travis Head, now a standout performer, was previously unsold in IPL 2023, but after his exceptional performances in the 2023 World Cup and other formats, he has become a sought-after player.
His remarkable stats include being the Player of the Match in both the World Cup final and World Test Championship final, having the best average among Australia’s top-10 ODI run-scorers in 2023, and excelling in T20Is and Tests.
Due to short-term memories in IPL auctions, teams might now be willing to spend big on Travis Head in IPL 2024, scheduled for mid-December.
Here are three teams where he could be a valuable addition:
#1 Gujarat Titans
Gujarat Titans, IPL 2023 runners-up, predominantly relied on an all-Indian top order. Considering the aging opener Wriddhiman Saha, Travis Head and Shubman Gill at the top could offer exceptional batting strength with a left-right combination.
This dynamic duo could provide flexibility in the middle order. Playing at the Narendra Modi Stadium in Ahmedabad, where Head has performed well internationally, would likely boost his IPL form. If the Titans secure a proficient Indian pacer, Head could significantly elevate their team performance.
#2 Delhi Capitals
Reports suggest that Delhi Capitals might release Prithvi Shaw for IPL 2024. If true, acquiring Travis Head, a high-quality player, makes sense. Delhi struggled in the powerplay last season, and Head, paired with David Warner at the top, could boost their batting.
With Rishabh Pant’s return, a middle-order overseas spot opens, and Head’s proficiency against spin aligns with Delhi’s pitch conditions. Head’s leg spin provides an additional pitch option. His experience in Australia’s leadership group could enhance the Warner-Pant partnership.
#3 Kolkata Knight Riders
Kolkata Knight Riders, like Delhi Capitals, have compelling reasons to sign Travis Head in December. With a poor powerplay average, KKR struggled to stabilize their opening pair. Head’s inclusion could provide the much-needed stability they’ve sought since Gambhir’s departure.
Known for their spin-focused strategy, KKR faced challenges on Eden Gardens’ pitches. The slow surfaces in the recent World Cup suggest Head’s suitability and his clutch-moment mentality aligns with KKR’s aim to reclaim past success.
Get the latest cricket news here, like us on Facebook, and follow us on Twitter and Instagram for more such updates.
