The cricketing world is abuzz with anticipation as the IPL 2024 Auction approaches, promising a dazzling spectacle at Dubai’s Coca-Cola Arena. With 333 players vying for coveted spots across ten franchises, the stakes are higher than ever.
All the registered players have been meticulously categorized based on their reserve prices, ranging from INR 20 lakhs to a staggering INR 2 crores. The diversity in talent spans across different specializations, including batters, all-rounders, fast bowlers, spinners, and wicketkeepers.
Among the sea of talent, the auction also introduces captivating bidding concepts. On that note, let’s delve into the dynamics of the unique ‘accelerated round’ concept in the IPL auction and explore how it provides unsold players with another chance to find a spot in the IPL.
Bidding dynamics
The monetary aspect of the auction follows a structured pattern. Bidding starts with a climb of 20 lakhs on each call until it reaches INR 1 crore. From there, the stakes rise in increments of 25 lakhs until it hits 2 crores. Beyond this threshold, every bid escalates by 50 lakhs.
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The accelerated round
The accelerated round emerges as a unique feature after the bidding for top-capped India and international players concludes. In this specialized lane, each of the ten franchises gets the opportunity to shortlist remaining capped and uncapped players from the overall list that they are keen on acquiring in the upcoming sets.
Compiling these lists, the IPL authority orchestrates an intense separate round. This accelerated round becomes a strategic battleground for franchises to secure the best talents from the shortlisted pool. Importantly, players not shortlisted by any team do not go under the hammer in the auction.
Special window for unsold players
Given the vast player pool and limited slots, some players may remain unsold during the initial bidding. Franchises might also regret missing out on a player initially and wish to rectify their oversight. This is where the second chance for unsold players comes into play.
In a subsequent accelerated round, franchises submit the names of unsold players they are interested in bidding for again. This provides a lifeline for players who initially went without a buyer, giving them a second shot at being part of an IPL squad. The accelerated round becomes a stage of redemption for these players and a strategic move for franchises looking to bolster their squads.