• Punjab Kings grabbed the Indian pacer Harshal Patel for a whopping Rs 11.75 crores in the IPL 2024 auction.

  • Preity Zinta's PBKS won the battle at the auction table against Gujarat Titans.

Fans thrilled as Harshal Patel becomes most expensive Indian purchase of the IPL 2024 Auction
Harshal Patel and Preity Zinta (Image Source: Twitter)

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In a captivating twist during the ongoing Indian Premier League (IPL) 2024 auction at Dubai’s Coca-Cola Arena, Harshal Patel, the former Royal Challengers Bangalore (RCB) player, has secured a lucrative deal with the Punjab Kings (PBKS). The auction witnessed Harshal emerging as the most expensive Indian purchase, with the Kings securing his services for an impressive sum of Rs 11.75 crore.

Fierce bidding duel for Harshal Patel between Punjab Kings and Gujarat Titans

The bidding war unfolded as Gujarat Titans (GT) initiated the process at Harshal Patel’s base price of Rs 2 crore. What ensued was a fiercely contested battle between the Titans and the Kings. The bidding escalated rapidly, reaching a substantial amount before GT eventually withdrew, paving the way for PBKS to claim the talented medium pacer.

Purple cap holder’s journey

Harshal rose to prominence during his stint with RCB in 2021, where he made a significant impact. Notably, he clinched the coveted Purple Cap, awarded to the leading wicket-taker, by securing an impressive 32 wickets in 15 games. His exceptional bowling continued in the 2022 season, adding 19 more wickets to his tally.

Impactful performances with RCB

Harshal’s consistent wicket-taking ability played a pivotal role in RCB’s qualification for the playoffs in both the 2021 and 2022 seasons. Despite a relatively quieter performance in the previous year, where he picked up 14 wickets in 13 games, the medium pacer’s track record and past successes position him as a valuable asset for his new franchise, the Kings.

Also READ: Netizens delighted as CSK bags New Zealand’s sensation Rachin Ravindra in IPL 2024 Auction

High expectations for the IPL 2024 Season

Fans are eagerly anticipating Harshal’s contributions to PBKS, expecting him to carry forward his stellar form and continue making a significant impact in the upcoming IPL season. The sizeable contract reflects the confidence the Kings have in Harshal’s ability to be a game-changer, and the team’s supporters are optimistic about the success he could bring to their campaign.

Here’s how Twitter reacted:

Also READ: Fans go crazy as Mitchell Starc shatters records, becomes the costliest buy in IPL history

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AMAR PAL SINGH BHALLA
Amar is a sports enthusiast and a talented writer who has found the perfect career that combines his two passions. As a valuable member of Cricket Times, Amar brings his passion for cricket and his talent for writing to the fore, providing readers with insightful and engaging content. Cricket lives rent-free in his mind. A person who views cricket as a metaphor for life. You can connect with Amar at amar.bhalla@crickettimes.com and also follow him on LinkedIn.