The IPL 2024 auction, potentially a mini auction due to expiring three-year contracts, could witness bidding wars sparked by outstanding ODI World Cup 2023 performances. Notably, the auction will take place outside India for the first time, in Dubai’s Coca-Cola Arena on December 19, 2023.
Franchises, including Chennai Super Kings (CSK) and Mumbai Indians (MI), will unveil their retained and released player lists by late November. With available spots to fill, CSK and MI may engage in bidding wars on December 19 if they target the same player for their squads.
Here are three players for whom CSK and MI might engage in a bidding war during the IPL 2024 auction:
#1 Dunith Wellalage (Sri Lanka)
Dunith Wellalage made an initial impact with his spin bowling during the Asia Cup 2023, notably taking 5 wickets against India. As a former U19 World Cup captain for Sri Lanka, he is considered the nation’s upcoming talent.
Wellalage is valued for his role as a middle-order hitter and adept left-arm spinner, utilizing variations like the arm ball and sliders. H
is dynamic presence on the field and batting proficiency make him a coveted white-ball player, representing a complete package in the fast-paced world of modern cricket.
#2 Daryl Mitchell (New Zealand)
Daryl Mitchell’s century against India in Dharamsala has thrust him into the spotlight for the IPL 2024 auction. Despite previous challenges with Rajasthan Royals, Mitchell’s matured batting style and all-round skills make him a sought-after player.
With impressive T20 statistics, averaging 30.79 with a strike rate of 135.14 and 18 half-centuries in 169 matches, he could be a valuable replacement for Ben Stokes at CSK, considering Stokes’ struggles in IPL 2023 due to post-surgery fitness issues.
#3 Rachin Ravindra (New Zealand)
Rachin Ravindra’s remarkable batting performance in the ongoing ODI World Cup 2023, where he is the leading run-scorer for New Zealand with 565 runs and three centuries, has garnered widespread attention.
His bowling skills add to his versatility, making him a promising prospect for the upcoming IPL 2024 auction.
At the age of 23, Ravindra, a spin-bowling all-rounder, is expected to attract interest from both CSK and MI, as he presents an opportunity for grooming into a potential leadership role in the future.
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