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Chris Woakes, who missed out on selection for England’s Test tour to India, is gearing up to make a significant impact in the upcoming Indian Premier League (IPL) 2024 edition .
Chris Woakes Eyes IPL 2024 for redemption
The English all-rounder has a history of IPL stints, with notable performances in the past. In the 2017 auction, Kolkata Knight Riders (KKR) acquired him, where he showcased his prowess by claiming 17 wickets in 13 matches. His standout figures of 3/6 underscored his effectiveness. Subsequently, in 2018, Royal Challengers Bangalore (RCB) secured his services, and he delivered with eight wickets in five games. Despite being released in 2019, Woakes found a new home with Delhi Capitals (DC) in the 2020 auction. However, he opted out of the tournament to stay fresh for England’s Test season.
Woakes continued his association with the Capitals in the 2021 season, making impactful contributions. Nevertheless he decided to skip the IPL in 2023, citing the challenging transition from T20 to Test cricket.
Woakes sparks potential bidding war among franchises
Now, with a base price of 2 crores, Woakes is reentering the IPL auction, and several teams are likely to vie for his services. The 34-year-old’s ability to swing the ball, contribute with the bat, and bring invaluable experience makes him an enticing prospect for franchises looking to strengthen their squads in the upcoming season. As Woakes sets his sights on the IPL, he aims for a successful comeback to T20 cricket, presenting an opportunity for teams to secure a game-changing player in the auction.
5 teams that could target Harry Brook in IPL 2024 auction
5 teams who could bid for Chris Woakes in the IPL 2024 auction:
1. Mumbai Indians (MI)
Mumbai Indians, with a track record of strategic team-building, might target Woakes in the IPL 2024 auction to bolster their bowling department. Known for his versatility as a pace bowler and handy contributions with the bat, Woakes could offer MI a dependable option in both departments. Considering MI’s tendency to invest in seasoned all-rounders, Woakes’ base price of 2 crores makes him an attractive prospect. His ability to swing the new ball and deliver crucial overs in the death, coupled with his experience in high-pressure situations, aligns with MI’s preference for match-winners.
2. Kolkata Knight Riders (KKR):
Kolkata Knight Riders, seeking a balance between youth and experience, might eye Woakes to add depth to their fast-bowling arsenal. Woakes’ skill set aligns with KKR’s emphasis on a well-rounded squad. With a base price of 2 crores, Woakes brings international experience and a proven track record, making him an ideal candidate for KKR’s roster. His adaptability to various conditions and knack for breaking partnerships could address KKR’s requirements for a reliable seamer who can make an impact throughout the tournament.
3. Punjab Kings (PBKS):
Punjab Kings, often known for making strategic buys in the IPL auctions, could target Woakes to reinforce their bowling unit. Woakes’ ability to extract bounce and move the ball both ways provides an enticing option for PBKS, especially considering their penchant for high-scoring fixtures in batting-friendly conditions. The 2 crores base price is well within PBKS’s budget, and Woakes’ all-round abilities could bring balance to the side, offering an extra dimension to their bowling while contributing crucial runs down the order.
4. Rajasthan Royals (RR):
Rajasthan Royals, known for their innovative team composition, may find Woakes an attractive proposition in the IPL 2024 auction. Woakes’ proficiency as a new-ball bowler and his finishing abilities with the bat align with RR’s strategy of building a squad with multi-skilled players. With a base price of 2 crores, Woakes could fit well into RR’s plans, providing them with a reliable option in both powerplay overs and the death. His international experience adds value to RR’s quest for a well-balanced team.
5. Royal Challengers Bangalore (RCB):
Royal Challengers Bangalore, perennial contenders for the IPL title, might target Woakes to address their concerns in the fast-bowling department. With a base price of 2 crores, Woakes offers an attractive proposition for RCB, bringing in his experience and ability to swing the ball. RCB, often relying on a star-studded batting lineup, could benefit from Woakes’ all-round abilities, adding depth to both their bowling and lower-order batting. The conditions in Bangalore also favour Woakes’ style of bowling, making him a potential asset for the team.