IPL auction extravaganza, cricket stars brace for mega deals in Dubai

In the upcoming auction in Dubai, the cricketing world is buzzing with anticipation as some of the finest players vie for lucrative spots in the Indian Premier League (IPL).

With a staggering combined budget of $31.5 million across 10 franchises, the auction promises high stakes and fierce competition.

Australia’s Pat Cummins, absent from the previous IPL due to a packed schedule, is set for a triumphant return after leading Australia to World Cup glory in India.

The seasoned fast bowler, celebrated for his captaincy and a previous auction record of $2.17 million, enters the bidding with a base price of $240,000.

The IPL auction also sees other Australian World Cup champions, including Josh Hazlewood, Travis Head, Josh Inglis, Mitchell Starc, Steve Smith, and Sean Abbott, all eyeing substantial paydays.

New Zealand’s rising batting all-rounder, Rachin Ravindra, has captured attention with three centuries and 578 runs at a strike rate of 106 in the World Cup.

The 24-year-old left-handed batter and spinner, with a base price of $60,000, carries the legacy of Indian cricket greats in his name and is expected to be a hot prospect in the auction.

England’s exciting batsman, Harry Brook, known for his prowess in all formats, is seeking redemption after a less impactful stint with Sunrisers Hyderabad in the previous IPL.

With a strike rate of 141.54 in T20s, Brook maintains a base price of $240,000 and aims to make a significant impact in the upcoming season.

Gerald Coetzee, a breakout star from the World Cup, finished among the top bowlers with 20 wickets.

The South African quick, part of the Proteas’ pace riches, is eager to elevate his career in the IPL with a base price of $240,000, showcasing his potential to be a game-changer.

Sri Lanka’s Wanindu Hasaranga, renowned for his leg-spin and all-round prowess, is back in the auction after being released by Royal Challengers Bangalore.

With a stellar track record of 158 wickets in limited-overs formats and a T20 strike rate exceeding 124, Hasaranga is poised to be a sought-after commodity in the bidding war.