Chennai Super Kings (CSK) have a hefty budget of 31.5 crores for the mini auctions of the next Indian Premier League (IPL) season. The reigning champions have released England all-rounder Ben Stokes, who cost them Rs 16.25 crores in the last auction. They have also let go of bowlers like Sisanda Magala and Dwaine Pretorius.
CSK’s strategy for IPL 2024
CSK, known for their smart picks, will aim to build a balanced squad for the 17th edition of the IPL, with a mix of seasoned players and young talents. The final player selection will depend on the team’s needs and the auction scenario. Here are six players that CSK might go for in the IPL 2024 auction.
6 players CSK might go for in IPL 2024 auction:
Manish Pandey:
- Base Price: 50 lakhs
- IPL History: Manish Pandey was bought by the Delhi franchise for Rs 2.40 Cr in the IPL Auction 2023. However, he had a disappointing season, scoring only 160 runs in 10 matches, with a poor average of 17.78 and a strike rate of 109.59. He managed only one half-century throughout the season.
- Why CSK Might Want Him: Despite his poor form, Pandey is an experienced and reliable middle-order batter, who can play both anchor and aggressor roles, making him a useful player.
Pat Cummins:
- Base Price: 2 crores
- IPL History: Pat Cummins, a top-class fast bowler and a decent lower-order batter, missed the last IPL season due to a busy international schedule. The availability of the seasoned speedster, who impressed in the recent ODI World Cup 2023, has created a buzz in the cricketing world.
- Why CSK Might Want Him: His pace and wicket-taking ability make him a coveted player, and CSK might want to bolster their pace attack with his presence.
Josh Hazlewood:
- Base Price: 2 crores
- IPL History: Josh Hazlewood was picked by Royal Challengers Bangalore (RCB) for a whopping INR 7.75 crore in the IPL 2022 Mega Auction. He had a good start, taking 20 wickets in 12 matches. However, his performance dipped in the next season, as he took only three wickets in three games, leading to his release.
- Why CSK Might Want Him: The twist is, Hazlewood had played for CSK for two years before joining RCB. So, it would be a reunion for Hazlewood. His accuracy and swing could make him a fitting addition to CSK’s bowling lineup, especially in Indian conditions.
Alzarri Joseph:
- Base Price: 1 crore
- IPL History: Alzarri Joseph was signed by the Gujarat Titans (GT) for Rs 2.40 Cr in the IPL Auction 2023. However, the pacer could only take seven wickets in seven games, and his economy was around 10, which might have led to his release by Gujarat.
- Why CSK Might Want Him: However, Joseph, with his pace and bounce, could be a handy addition to CSK’s fast-bowling unit. His recent performances in various T20 leagues make him an appealing option.
Shahrukh Khan:
- Base Price: 40 lakhs
- IPL History: Shahrukh Khan, with his skills as a batter and an off-spinner, emerged as a versatile player for any IPL team. His impressive performances in the IPL, scoring 426 runs in 33 matches, increased his market value.
- Why CSK Might Want Him: The explosive Indian batter could provide the firepower CSK needs in the lower middle order, with his ability to hit quick runs in the death overs making him a potential match-winner.
Rachin Ravindra:
- Base Price: 50 lakhs
- Past History: Rachin Ravindra earned a lot of praise and support from cricket fans in recent months, especially for his outstanding performance in the CWC. The 23-year-old New Zealand all-rounder scored 237 runs and took 12 wickets in the tournament, helping his team reach the semi-finals. He also showed his versatility by opening the batting and bowling in different matches.
- Why CSK Might Want Him: Ravindra is a promising young talent who can contribute with both bat and ball. His spin bowling could be effective in the slow pitches of India, and his batting could add depth to CSK’s lineup. He could also be a backup option for Ravindra Jadeja, who shares a similar skill set.
