TEAMS LOOK TO FILL KEY SLOTS IN IPL AUCTION

MUMBAI: Perhaps if the Indian Premier League’s (IPL) miniauction was an end in itself, fivetime champions Mumbai Indians would rarely win the heavyspending bragging rights. MI though usually have the last laugh on the pitch. There were no bidding wars for Jasprit Bumrah, Hardik Pandya and Krunal Pandya when MI snapped them up in 2014, 2015 and 2016 respectively. With Kieron Pollard and captain Rohit Sharma, they are the architects of five titles in eight years.

When the eight teams take part in the auction on Thursday, MI will have ₹15.35 crore to fill a maximum of seven slots. The focus would be on getting fastbowling back-ups for Bumrah and Trent Boult. Big Bash League lead wicket-taker Jhye Richardson and New Zealand’s tall quick Kyle Jamieson could both be in contention. Kings XI Punjab have a purse of ₹53.2 crore with 16 squad members in place. They too need fast bowlers. Umesh Yadav and Mohit Sharma are among Indian options.

Royal Challengers Bangalore, having released 10 players, could buy 11 with ₹35.4 in hand. Rajasthan Royals have ₹37.85 crore to spend on a possible nine players. RCB have chased middle-order muscle to take the pressure off Virat Kohli and AB de Villiers. In the 292-player shortlist, Glenn Maxwell and Chris Morris fit the bill.

RR and Sunrisers Hyderabad could go after Indian batsmen. Uncapped Shahrukh Khan from Tamil Nadu, and even Shivam Dube or Kedar Jadhav despite an underwhelming 2020 season, could find takers. Chennai Super Kings need top-order batsmen. Steve Smith, Alex Hales who topscored in BBL, Jason Roy, Moeen Ali and Aaron Finch could all thus attract bids.

RCB and Delhi Capitals are in need for wicket-keeping reserves. Kolkata Knight Riders, like SRH, have ₹10.75 crore. They may seek spin back-up after Sunil Narine’s action came under a cloud.