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The eagerly anticipated Indian Premier League (IPL) 2024 auction is scheduled for December 19 in Dubai. Prior to this highly awaited event, teams have already revealed their list of retained/released players. Additionally, a substantial number of 1,166 players have registered for the auction, featuring several well-known names.
One such star is New Zealand fast bowler Lockie Ferguson, who was released by Kolkata Knight Riders (KKR) ahead of the forthcoming bidding event. Known for his blistering speed and ability to consistently trouble batters with his express pace, Ferguson played only three games for KKR in IPL 2023, claiming a solitary wicket.
In total, Ferguson has participated in 38 matches in the lucrative league, achieving 37 wickets, with his best performance being 4/28. Possessing a unique bowling action and the ability to generate considerable bounce, the Black Caps pacer has proven to be a valuable asset for IPL teams.
His stints in the IPL have showcased his effectiveness in both the powerplay and death overs, making him a sought-after bowler for franchises. Apart from his raw pace, Ferguson possesses a range of variations, adding an element of unpredictability to his bowling.
5 teams who could bid for Lockie Ferguson in the IPL 2024 auction:
Gujarat Titans (GT)
During the mega auction of IPL 2022, the Gujarat Titans (GT) secured the services of Ferguson for a substantial INR 10 crore. He delivered commendable performances for the team, playing a crucial role in Gujarat’s journey to their inaugural IPL title.
In 13 appearances, Ferguson claimed 12 wickets with an average of 35.58, showcasing his skills both as an opening pacer and a death bowler. Given their previous positive experience with Ferguson, GT might express interest in acquiring him once again in the upcoming auction. Presently, Gujarat relies on Mohammed Shami as their sole established pacer, and the addition of Ferguson would significantly strengthen their pace attack.
Kolkata Knight Riders (KKR)
Kolkata Knight Riders (KKR) share a longstanding association with Ferguson. Leading up to the 2023 edition, he featured for the two-time champions in 2019, 2020, and 2021. Recently, the Knight Riders released several players, including Ferguson, and there is a possibility they might seek to acquire him again, possibly at a reduced price.
With no current overseas fast bowler on their roster, the Knight Riders, known for their consistent trust in Ferguson, may witness him once again wearing the KKR jersey in the upcoming season of the lucrative league.
Also READ: 4 teams that could target Pat Cummins in IPL 2024 auction
Sunrisers Hyderabad (SRH)
Sunrisers Hyderabad (SRH) boasts specialist pacers Umran Malik and Fazalhaq Farooqi for IPL 2024. They have also retained South African all-rounder Marco Jansen for the forthcoming season of the exciting tournament.
However, they still need a premium pacer who can deliver them spells at the opening as well as death overs and Feguson fits all the criteria. In order to make their bowling unit appear lethal, SRH may go for Ferguson in IPL 2024 auction.
Royal Challengers Bangalore (RCB)
During the IPL 2022 mega auctions, the Royal Challengers Bangalore (RCB) had displayed keen interest in securing the services of Ferguson. They entered the bidding when Ferguson’s price escalated to INR 6.75 crore and remained engaged until it reached INR 8.75 crore, clearly indicating their strong desire to acquire him. However, GT ultimately secured Ferguson for INR 10 crore.
As the IPL 2024 auctions approach, RCB has released several players, including pace options such as Josh Hazlewood, Harshal Patel, David Willey, and Wayne Parnell. In preparation for IPL 2024, where they aim to strengthen their pace bowling options, RCB might pursue Ferguson in the upcoming auctions.
Chennai Super Kings (CSK)
Predicting Chennai Super Kings’ (CSK) approach in the IPL auctions is always challenging. They typically maintain a low profile and avoid entering bidding wars for players. However, given the composition of their current squad, there is a significant possibility that CSK might pursue Ferguson in the IPL 2024 auction.
The five-time champions have released players such as Ben Stokes, Dwaine Pretorius, Kyle Jamieson, and Sisanda Magala, leaving them with only Deepak Chahar, Matheesha Pathirana, and Tushar Deshpande as recognized pace options. To further fortify their pace unit, CSK could place a bid for Ferguson in the upcoming auction.
