IPL Auction 2024: What's on Each Team's Wishlist?

With the gavel ready to fall in Dubai on December 19th, 2023, anticipation for the IPL 2024 auction is at a fever pitch. Each of the ten franchises has its own strategic gaps, burning desires, and limited purse to navigate. Let’s peek into their wishlists:

Chennai Super Kings (CSK):

Youngsters for the future: While their core remains strong, CSK needs fresh blood, particularly in the middle order. Look for them to target talented uncapped Indian batters.
A backup spin option: Ravindra Jadeja’s workload management is crucial. A quality left-arm spinner like Mukesh Kumar could be a shrewd pick.

Delhi Capitals (DC):

Firepower at the top: David Warner’s age necessitates a long-term opening partner. Prithvi Shaw needs a reliable foil, a fearless aggressor like Phil Salt or Will Jacks.
Veteran fast bowler: Ishant Sharma’s future is uncertain. An experienced overseas pacer like Mitchell Starc or Trent Boult could bolster their attack.

Gujarat Titans (GT):

Quality all-rounder: Hardik Pandya needs a reliable partner who can bat aggressively and bowl economically. Someone like Sam Curran or Cameron Green fits the bill perfectly.
Left-arm pacer: With Shami Ahmed aging, a left-arm quick like Tymal Mills or Daniel Sams could add variety and wicket-taking prowess.

Kolkata Knight Riders (KKR):

Middle-order enforcer: Shreyas Iyer and Nitish Rana require a finisher. Tim David or Rovman Powell’s big-hitting abilities could be tempting.
A young leg-spinner: Sunil Narine’s decline necessitates a long-term successor. Ravi Bishnoi or Akash Singh could be interesting picks.

Lucknow Super Giants (LSG):

Explosive opener: KL Rahul needs a consistent partner. Jason Roy or Dawid Malan’s attacking instincts could be the perfect foil.
Experienced leg-spinner: Ravi Bishnoi is talented but needs support. Adam Zampa or Rashid Khan’s experience and skill could prove invaluable.

Mumbai Indians (MI):

Reliable pace spearhead: Jasprit Bumrah’s absence needs covering. Jofra Archer, if fit, or Marco Jansen’s raw pace could be attractive options.
Middle-order anchor: Suryakumar Yadav thrives with a solid No.3. Someone like Joe Root or Tom Banton could add stability and class.

Also Read: Tennis Titans Clash in Abu Dhabi: Lucrative Exhibition Heats Up the Off-Season.

Punjab Kings (PBKS):

Quality opening batsmen: Mayank Agarwal needs a consistent partner. Quinton de Kock’s experience or Will Smeed’s explosive batting could be game-changers.
Left-arm swing bowler: Arshdeep Singh needs support. Reece Topley or Kyle Jamieson’s swing and wicket-taking abilities could be invaluable.

Rajasthan Royals (RR):

Spin-bowling all-rounder: Ravichandran Ashwin needs a side-kick. Wanindu Hasaranga or Mitchell Swepson’s all-round skills could be a perfect fit.
Fast-bowling backup: Jofra Archer’s uncertain future needs addressing. Morris or Avesh Khan’s experience and pace could be crucial.

This is just a glimpse into the aspirations of each franchise. As the auction unfolds, surprises, bidding wars, and unexpected stars are bound to emerge. Who will get their dream players? Tune in on December 19th to find out!

Remember: This article is based on information available as of today, December 18th, 2023. The actual auction might unfold differently.

Tags: IPL, IPL Auction 2024

DISCLAIMER: This team is based on the understanding, analysis, and instinct of the author. While selecting your team, consider the points mentioned and make your own decision.