As the anticipation builds for the IPL 2024 Auction scheduled in Dubai on December 19, there’s fervent speculation about potential record-breaking bids for players. Currently, English all-rounder Sam Curran holds the title for the most expensive IPL player, having been acquired by Punjab Kings for a staggering 18.50 crore INR in the 2023 auction, surpassing Chris Morris’s 16.25 crore acquisition by Rajasthan Royals in 2022.
With the upcoming auction boasting top cricket talents and teams armed with substantial budgets, breaking the existing record seems highly plausible.
Rachin Ravindra (New Zealand)
Rachin Ravindra’s stock soared during the ICC Men’s ODI Cricket World Cup 2023 in India. The Kiwi batsman impressed with a total of 578 runs, including three centuries and two half-centuries in 10 innings, securing the fourth-highest run-scorer position. Additionally, his slow left-arm spin has proven effective in picking up crucial wickets. Given his success in Indian conditions and a base price of INR 50 lakh, a fierce bidding war is expected for the 24-year-old all-rounder.
Daryl Mitchell (New Zealand)
Daryl Mitchell, renowned for his powerful hitting in the middle order, played a crucial role for New Zealand in the recent ODI World Cup, accumulating 552 runs, including two centuries against India. His ability to bowl right-arm medium pace adds versatility to his profile. Mitchell’s impressive T20I average of close to 25 and a strike rate just under 140 make him an attractive prospect. The bidding for Mitchell will commence at INR 1 crore.
Travis Head (Australia)
Australian vice-captain Travis Head, a versatile opening batter and handy medium-pacer, played a pivotal role in Australia’s triumph in the 2023 ODI World Cup. With a high base price of INR 2 crore, the IPL 2024 auction is expected to witness a substantial bidding war for the Australian World Cup hero.
Mitchell Starc (Australia)
Mitchell Starc, a proven left-arm pacer and match-winner for Australia, is set to return to the IPL after a hiatus since 2015. With a decade-long experience leading Australia’s pace attack, Starc’s pedigree and skills are likely to command a significant price tag in the quest for quality bowlers at the IPL 2024 auction.
Gerald Coetzee (South Africa)
South African fast bowler Gerald Coetzee, emerging as one of the most promising talents, showcased his raw pace and wicket-taking abilities in the 2023 ODI World Cup. His impressive tally of 20 wickets in just eight matches makes him a sought-after addition to teams looking to bolster their pace battery. Coetzee’s premium base value is set at 2 crore.
In addition to these five players, Wanindu Hasaranga from Sri Lanka, Australian veteran Josh Hazlewood, Englishman Josh Inglis, and India’s Shahrukh Khan are also expected to command significant attention and potentially premium valuations at the IPL 2024 auction.
