6 shocking trades we saw at the IPL auctions 2024

The Indian Premier League (IPL) 2024 auctions delivered some stunning trades that took the cricket world by surprise. While teams aimed for the best squads, several unexpected deals unfolded, leaving fans astonished.

Here are 6 astonishing trades witnessed at the auctions in Dubai on Tuesday (December 19):

Mitchell Starc

• The 33-year-old Australian pacer made a remarkable comeback to the IPL after an eight-year hiatus.
• Starc scripted history by becoming the IPL's most expensive player, being acquired by KKR at Rs 24.75 crore.
• The bidding war between Gujarat Titans and KKR underlined KKR's urgent need for a dedicated pacer to fortify their pace attack.

Pat Cummins

• The Australian bowling allrounder fetched a whopping Rs 20.75 crore from Sunrisers Hyderabad (SRH) after an intense bidding battle with RCB.
• SRH, in dire need of leadership, is likely to have Cummins as their captain for IPL 2024, evident from the heavy investment made in acquiring him.

3. Daryl Mitchell

• The acquisition of New Zealand batter Daryl Mitchell by CSK at Rs 14 crore stood out as another surprising move.
• Starting with a base price of Rs 1 crore, Mitchell's bidding saw an unexpected surge, ultimately landing him with CSK.
• Initially bid for by PBKS and DC, CSK swooped in to acquire him at Rs 14 crore.

4. Alzari Joseph

• RCB secured the services of the Caribbean bowler at a staggering Rs 11.50 crore, 11 times more than his base price of Rs 1 crore.
• Despite Joseph's limited IPL appearances since 2019, RCB outbid CSK and DC for his acquisition, ultimately sealing the deal at Rs 11.50 crore.

5. Harshal Patel

• The surprising acquisition of 33-year-old pacer Harshal Patel by Punjab Kings (PBKS) came at a hefty price of Rs 11.75 crore.
• Initially valued at Rs 2 crore, Patel's value soared during the bidding as both LSG and PBKS vied for him, driving his price upwards. Patel, released by RCB before the auctions, showcased his potential with 14 wickets in 13 matches in 2023.

6. Rowman Powell

• Rajasthan Royals (RR) surprisingly secured the West Indian batter at Rs 7.80 crore in an intense bidding war with Kolkata Knight Riders (KKR).
• Powell's base price of Rs 1 crore skyrocketed to Rs 7.80 crore, and he was ultimately bagged by RR. Despite Powell's limited IPL appearances and an average strike-rate, RR sought him as a powerful finisher for their team.