The fans are filled with excitement as the IPL 2024 auction is slated to take place on December 19, 2023, in Dubai. With a total of 333 cricketers up for grabs, this auction promises to be a riveting event, featuring 214 Indian players and 119 talented individuals from foreign shores. Notably, two players hailing from associate countries add an intriguing international flavor to the roster.
Diving into the player statistics, we find that among the 333 cricketing gems, there are 116 players with caps, showcasing their seasoned experience on the field. In contrast, 215 players without caps add an element of youthful vigour and untapped potential to the mix. It’s a fascinating blend of established talent and rising stars, creating an auction dynamic that is sure to keep fans on the edge of their seats.
As the auction unfolds, the 10 IPL franchises will be in fierce competition to secure the services of the coveted players. However, there’s a catch – only 77 players can find a spot in these star-studded teams. Adding to the intrigue, 30 of these slots are reserved for international players, amplifying the global allure of the IPL.
One player who has captured the attention of fans and experts alike is the dynamic Indian all-rounder, Shardul Thakur. Despite being traded from the Delhi Capitals to the Kolkata Knight Riders, the latter has made the decision to release him ahead of the IPL 2024 auction. Thakur’s previous stint with Chennai Super Kings (CSK) from 2018 to 2021 showcased his mettle, contributing significantly to CSK’s two IPL championships during this period.
Suresh Raina Wants Shardul Thakur In Chennai Super Kings
In his four years with CSK, Thakur exhibited a remarkable all-round performance, averaging 27.52 runs per match and claiming an impressive 55 wickets in 48 games. His standout year in 2021, where he secured 21 wickets, marked a career-defining moment. Suresh Raina, a former India and CSK player, is optimistic about Thakur’s prospects in the upcoming auction, drawing parallels with the esteemed Pat Cummins.
According to Raina, Thakur’s versatility in both batting and bowling sets him apart. While with CSK, he proved instrumental in breaking partnerships and demonstrated proficiency with both the new and old ball. Raina emphasizes that Thakur’s understanding of the CSK administration and leadership, coupled with his past successes, make him a potentially crucial acquisition. In a mock IPL auction on Jio Cinema, Raina expressed, “He is very similar to Pat Cummins. He has done well in the bowling department as well as with the bat. KKR, I don’t think used him in that manner. When he played for CSK, he has done really well. He brought a lot of quality with the older ball as well as the new ball. (Deepak) Chahar is a bit injury-prone, and (Matheesha) Pathirana also is. He is an all-rounder like Deepak Chahar. He (Shardul) understands the CSK administration, he understands the leadership. And MS astutely used him well. I think he is (can be) an important buy. I think, like Abhinav Mukund said, he is a very important Indian bowler. And his form will be crucial.”
