IPL 2024

5 Players Royal Challengers Bangalore will target in mini auction

As the trade window deadline approaches in the lead-up to the IPL 2024 auction, Royal Challengers Bangalore (RCB) has made strategic moves, releasing players like Wanindu Hasaranga and Josh Hazlewood to manage their wage bill. Despite facing heartbreaks, RCB remains an emotional anchor for Bengaluru, with a loyal fan base and a history of memorable moments. The three-time finalists are undergoing changes, with Mo Bobat joining as the director of cricket operations and Andy Flower as a coach, reuniting with skipper Faf du Plessis. The team is gearing up for the upcoming season, emphasizing that success in cricket is a marathon, not a sprint.

Royal Challengers released eleven players, including Hazlewood, Harshal Patel, and Hasaranga, all of whom were significant investments. The franchise aims to potentially reacquire them at a lower cost. Currently, with 19 players on their roster, RCB intends to utilize the remaining INR 40.75 crore salary cap in the upcoming mini-auction. The team is poised to pursue new players to complete their roster ahead of the highly anticipated tournament.

Let us now look at possible options for RCB during the IPL 2024 auction;

Kartik Tyagi

Despite receiving acclaim for his rapid bowling, Kartik Tyagi had limited opportunities in the Sunrisers’ squad following his transfer from the Rajasthan Royals. Tyagi was one of the brightest stars in under-19 (2020) cricket and has shown glimpses of his talent in the IPL also. RCB is keen on incorporating this talented seamer into their formidable pace battery, providing a strong complement to the likes of Mohammed Siraj and Reece Topley.

 

Manish Pandey

Manish Pandey has been an experienced Indian batter and stands out as one of the few available options in the IPL Auctions. When he became the youngest and first Indian to score a century in IPL he was playing for RCB. Hence, going after him will be like a homecoming for RCB. While not the same player he once was, having an Indian batsman in the squad could prove beneficial for any franchise. His inclusion in the playing XI might be particularly advantageous on turning pitches, given his reputation as a skilled player against spin.

 

Gerald Coetzee

Gerald Coetzee exhibits remarkable energy and a purposeful run-up. In each game he’s been part of, he has consistently made valuable contributions by taking wickets in the middle overs. As a key participant in the upcoming IPL auction, he will be closely monitored. Coetzee has the potential to fill the crucial role of the death bowler that RCB has sought for several years. As so often has been the case with the IPL Auction the recent stars attract handsome money, and the right-arm pacer can definitely fancy his chances. His ability with the bat also gives him a little bit of edge.

 

Mitchell Starc

Mitchell Starc who is the most talked about player as soon as the Australian fast bowler announced his participation in the IPL 2024 auction. The legendary speedster is known for his ability to generate movement with the new ball and execute Yorkers in the death overs, he becomes a potential target for RCB. While Starc’s acquisition might come with a hefty price tag, RCB could possibly afford him considering they still have available funds. In addition to that, Starc also has played for RCB before.

 

Rachin Ravindra

Rachin Ravindra will certainly be one of the must-buy property at the IPL Auction given his terrific run in the recently concluded World Cup. RCB known for its affinity for all-rounders, aligns well with Rachin Ravindra. There’s potential for him to open the innings, leveraging his ability for quick scoring, and addressing RCB’s batting concerns. Despite the established opening partnership of Virat Kohli and Faf du Plessis, Ravindra could provide stability as an opener, allowing Kohli to bat in his preferred position at number 3. In addition to this, his left-arm orthodox bowling gives him a valuable edge.