Last year’s IPL saw Sam Curran claim the title for the most expensive player in the league’s history. With this year’s auction looming, who will take the spotlight? Mini IPL auctions have historically churned out some of the tournament’s priciest acquisitions. In the previous December auction, Punjab Kings secured Sam Curran for a staggering INR 18.50 crore (approx. USD 2.26 million), setting a new record. His standout performances at the 2022 T20 World Cup significantly boosted his value. As this IPL auction aligns with a recent World Cup, the tendency for recency bias might influence bidding strategies. Which players are set to headline this auction? Here’s Infotainia’s rundown of the potentially most sought-after talents.

Mitchell Starc

Set 4: Fast Bowlers. Base price: INR 2 crore (approx. USD 240,000)

A multiple World Cup-winning speedster, Starc’s prowess lies in executing aggressive spells during the powerplay and death overs. His ability to swing the ball conventionally and with reverse swing, coupled with shrewd variations in pace, sets him apart. He’s also proven himself as a handy lower-order batsman. Despite opting out at times to manage workload, Starc, nearly 34, eyes an IPL return after an eight-year hiatus, gearing up for the T20 World Cup in June. His presence as a frontline bowler attracts several franchises, hinting at a heated bidding war to secure his services.

Rachin Ravindra

Set 2: Allrounders. Base price: INR 50 lakh (approx. USD 60,000)

Ravindra’s meteoric rise in the ODI World Cup spotlighted his talent. Initially not slated to play for New Zealand, his impactful performances as an opener and adeptness against spin generated interest. His ability to tackle pace off the back foot, honed from visits to India with Wellington’s Hutt Hawks club, adds value. Ravindra’s knack for quick left-arm fingerspin and late-order batting make him an attractive prospect.

Shardul Thakur

Set 2: Allrounders. Base price: INR 2 crore (approx. USD 240,000)

In a league where seam-bowling allrounders are in demand, Thakur stands out. Despite leaking runs, his wicket-taking variations, coupled with powerful lower-order batting, appeal to IPL franchises. His impactful performances in IPL 2023, including a blistering 68 off 29 balls, highlight his potential.

Pat Cummins

Set 2: Allrounders. Base price: INR 2 crore (approx. USD 240,000)

Cummins’ stellar 2023 saw him lead Australia to multiple victories across formats. A seasoned IPL player, his all-round abilities with the ball and bat, including a memorable 14-ball 50, place him in high demand. His leadership skills make him a coveted asset for franchises.

Gerald Coetzee

Set 2: Allrounders. Base price: INR 2 crore (approx. USD 240,000)

Coetzee’s imposing presence and aggressive bowling style make him a formidable force. His knack for picking wickets across T20 phases, backed by a solid slower ball, gained attention. Recruitments by Chennai Super Kings’ teams indicate his growing recognition, positioning him as a potential target for franchises.

Harshal Patel

Set 2: Allrounders. Base price: INR 2 crore (approx. USD 240,000)

Known for his death-over expertise, Harshal’s ability to bowl under pressure despite occasional runs leakage makes him a specialized asset. His knack for picking wickets in the IPL’s final overs, coupled with Indian conditions’ familiarity, adds weight to his bidding prospects.

Wanindu Hasaranga

Set 2: Allrounders. Base price: INR 1.5 crore (approx. USD 181,000)

Hasaranga’s recent form, crowned as the MVP in the Lanka Premier League, makes him an attractive buy. Despite injury setbacks, his leg-spin variations and batting prowess position him as a valuable asset for teams seeking a quality spin-bowling allrounder.

Shahrukh Khan

Set 7: Uncapped Allrounders. Base price: INR 40 lakh (approx. USD 48,000)

Shahrukh’s domestic performances, particularly his explosive batting in the Tamil Nadu Premier League, make him an intriguing prospect. His ability to attack pace and improve against spin might draw interest from franchises looking for a finishing powerhouse.

Daryl Mitchell

Set 2: Allrounders. Base price: INR 1 crore (approx. USD 120,000)

A pivotal figure in New Zealand’s ODI World Cup victory, Daryl Mitchell showcased his prowess as a formidable batter. Accumulating 552 runs at an average of 25 and a strike rate just under 140, Mitchell’s big-hitting abilities played a crucial role in New Zealand’s triumph. Additionally, he offers versatility with his right-handed medium pace bowling, presenting a valuable option for any team at the upcoming auction. With a base price of INR 1 crore, Mitchell adds another dynamic dimension to the pool of sought-after players in the IPL 2024 auction.

Chris Woakes

Set 4: Fast bowlers. Base price: INR 1 crore (approx. USD 120,000)

Chris Woakes, the seasoned fast bowler, stands as one of the most experienced and versatile players in T20 cricket, boasting an extensive career with the England cricket team since the format’s inception. With over 100 wickets and 5000 runs in T20 cricket, Woakes has demonstrated his all-round capabilities, maintaining an impressive average of over 30 and a strike rate exceeding 140. Entering the IPL 2024 auction with a base price of INR 1 crore, Woakes presents an opportunity for teams to acquire a seasoned campaigner who can contribute significantly with both bat and ball. Expect Woakes to generate keen interest and potentially secure a premium bid at the auction.

Mujeeb Ur Rahman

Set 4: Spin bowlers. Base price: INR 1 crore (approx. USD 120,000)

Mujeeb Ur Rahman, the talented leg-spinner from Afghanistan, emerged as one of the standout performers in the ODI World Cup 2023. Displaying his prowess with the ball, Mujeeb claimed an impressive tally of 15 wickets in six matches. Additionally, he showcased his batting abilities, amassing 97 runs at a striking rate of 144. With a base price of INR 1 crore, Mujeeb presents an enticing option for IPL teams seeking a valuable all-rounder. Given his recent success on the international stage, Mujeeb is poised to attract substantial bids, making him a player to watch out for in the IPL 2024 auction.

This year’s IPL auction promises fierce bidding battles as franchises vie for these potential game-changers.