Cricbuzzteam, The IPL 2024 auction is set to take place on December 19, featuring a massive pool of 1,116 players, including some international heavyweights. Among the registered players, overseas cricketers are expected to be in high demand as only 30 out of the 77 available slots can be filled by foreign players. This demand-and-supply dynamic is likely to result in significant bids for certain players. Let’s delve into five overseas players who could attract substantial bids in the upcoming IPL 2024 auction.
IPL 2024 Foreign Players
1. Travis Head: Travis Head is poised to be a hot commodity at the IPL 2024 auction, thanks to his recent standout performances. The trend of overseas players shining against India, especially on Indian soil just before the auction, has been a consistent factor in the IPL. Head’s century in the ICC Cricket World Cup final against India and subsequent impactful cameos in the T20I series have undoubtedly caught the attention of teams seeking a formidable top-order batsman.
2. Rachin Ravindra: A revelation in the ICC Cricket World Cup 2023, Rachin Ravindra from New Zealand showcased his prowess by amassing 578 runs in ten games with an impressive strike rate of 106.44. His left-handed batting, coupled with slow left-arm spin, makes him an attractive all-round package. Teams looking for a versatile player capable of adapting to various T20 scenarios will likely vie for Ravindra, who has proven himself as a solid player of spin – a crucial skill in IPL conditions.
3. Daryl Mitchell: Daryl Mitchell emerged as the fifth-highest run-scorer in the 2023 World Cup, accumulating 552 runs at a strike rate of 111.02, including two centuries against India. A consistent performer in New Zealand’s batting lineup across formats, Mitchell brings a T20 career record exceeding 4,000 runs at an average of 30.8 and a striking rate of 135. His ability to excel in spin-hitting adds a valuable dimension to his game, making him a sought-after commodity in the auction.
4. Mitchell Starc: Making a return to the IPL auction after a hiatus since 2014, Mitchell Starc is anticipated to be in high demand. Renowned as one of the most lethal white-ball fast bowlers globally, Starc’s proficiency with the new ball is a valuable asset for teams lacking depth in the fast bowling department. Given that Starc was previously picked up by Royal Challengers Bangalore in 2014, and with the team having released many bowlers, they might be keen on acquiring his services once again.
5. Gerald Coetzee: The 23-year-old South African fast bowler, Gerald Coetzee, made a significant impact in the 2023 World Cup, taking 20 wickets in just eight games. His remarkable eight-over spell in the semi-final against Australia showcased both his speed and tenacity. Coetzee’s ability to contribute with the bat, adding to the rare category of fast-bowling all-rounders, further enhances his appeal. Given his skills, youth, and impressive World Cup performance, Coetzee is expected to generate substantial interest in the auction.
The IPL 2024 auction promises intense bidding wars for these five overseas players, each bringing a unique set of skills and recent standout performances on the international stage. As franchises strive to assemble well-balanced squads, the demand for these players is likely to drive their auction prices to new heights. The event on December 19 will unveil the fate of these cricketers as they embark on their IPL journey with the hope of making a significant impact for their respective teams.