Chennai Super Kings (CSK) will enter the mini auctions of the upcoming Indian Premier League (IPL) edition with a substantial purse of 32.1 crores. The defending champions made a significant move by releasing England all-rounder Ben Stokes, whom they had acquired for Rs 16.25 crores in the previous auction. The MS Dhoni-led side has also parted ways with bowlers like Sisanda Magala and Dwaine Pretorius.
Challenges ahead for CSK
With an eye on strengthening their squad for the 17th edition of the IPL, CSK, renowned for its strategic selections, are likely to focus on achieving a balance between experienced players and emerging talents. The final player selection will be contingent on the team’s specific requirements and the dynamics of the auction. Here are six players that CSK could potentially bid for in the IPL 2024 auction.
6 players CSK could bid for in IPL 2024 auction:
1. Manish Pandey:
- Base Price: 50 lakhs
- Past History in IPL: During the IPL Auction 2023, Manish Pandey was acquired by the Delhi franchise for Rs 2.40 Cr. However, in the 10 games he featured in, he could only muster 160 runs with an abysmal average of 17.78 and a strike rate of only 109.59. He scored only one fifty throughout the season.
- Reason: Nevertheless, Pandey brings experience and stability to the middle order, with his ability to anchor the innings and play aggressive shots when needed, making him a valuable asset.
2. Pat Cummins:
- Base Price: 2 crores
- Past History in IPL: Pat Cummins, a world-class fast bowler and a handy lower-order batter, did not feature in the last year’s IPL due to a hectic international schedule. The imminent availability of the seasoned speedster, who showed remarkable brilliance in the recently concluded ODI World Cup 2023, has sent shockwaves through the cricketing community.
- Reason: His pace and wicket-taking ability make him a sought-after player, and CSK might look to strengthen their pace attack with his inclusion.
3. Josh Hazlewood:
- Base Price: 2 crores
- Past History in IPL: Acquired during the IPL 2022 Mega Auction by Royal Challengers Bangalore (RCB) for a substantial INR 7.75 crore, Josh Hazlewood had a promising start, claiming 20 wickets in 12 matches. Nevertheless, a dip in performance during the subsequent edition saw him securing only three wickets in three games, leading to his release.
- Reason: The catch is, before playing for RCB, Hazlewood had already spent two years with CSK. Therefore, it would be a homecoming for Hazlewood. His accuracy and ability to swing the ball could make him a suitable addition to CSK’s bowling lineup, with his skills being particularly effective in Indian conditions.
4. Alzarri Joseph:
- Base Price: 1 crore
- Past History in IPL: In the IPL Auction 2023, the Gujarat Titans (GT) acquired the services of Alzarri Joseph for Rs 2.40 Cr. Nonetheless, the pacer could pick only seven wickets in seven games, and his economy was around 10, which might be the reason behind his release by Gujarat.
- Reason: Nevertheless, Joseph, with his pace and ability to extract bounce, could be a valuable addition to CSK’s fast-bowling arsenal. His recent performances in various T20 leagues make him an attractive option.
Also READ: 5 players that Mumbai Indians (MI) could target in IPL 2024 auction
5. Shahrukh Khan:
- Base Price: 40 lakhs
- Past History in IPL: Shahrukh Khan, with his dual proficiency as a skilled batter and a handy off-spinner, emerged as a versatile asset for any IPL team. His noteworthy performances in the IPL, amassing 426 runs in 33 matches, contribute to elevating his market value.
- Reason: The explosive Indian batter could provide the finishing power CSK needs in the lower middle order, with his ability to score quick runs in the death overs making him a potential game-changer.
6. Rachin Ravindra:
- Base Price: 50 lakhs
- Past History: Rachin Ravindra garnered immense admiration and support from cricket fans in recent months, particularly for his stellar display in the CWC 2023. The 23-year-old stood out as the fourth-highest run-scorer in the tournament, accumulating an impressive total of 578 runs in ten innings, boasting an exceptional average of 64.22, embellished with three centuries.
- Reason: A talented all-rounder from New Zealand, he could offer CSK versatility, with his left-arm spin and aggressive batting style making him a player who can contribute in multiple facets of the game.
