New Delhi: Pace bowlers often attract big bucks from Indian Premier League franchises. And it is expected to be no different in its mega auction in Jeddah on November 24 and 25, ahead of the 2025 edition next year.
Teams spend a lot on overseas pacers as they provide early breakthroughs with the new ball in the powerplays. They also come handy in the death overs when batters are looking to score at a rapid rate.
Top quality pace bowlers are a rare commodity that compels IPL teams to have at least one of them in their squad.
As only Pat Cummins (Sunrisers Hyderabad) and Matheesha Pathirana (Chennai Super Kings) have been retained, several sought after fast bowlers would be up for grabs in the mega auctions.
A look at five such pacers on whom IPL teams could bet big money.
Mitchell Starc
The premier Australian pacer turned heads when Kolkata Knight Riders spent Rs 24.75 crore last year but justified the price tag with his ability to swing the ball and bowl yorkers.
The left armer bowls at around 150 km/h and has a wide array of variations, including lethal bouncers and well disguised slower deliveries.
His wicket-taking ability and experience to bowl under pressure makes him an asset for any team to have. With a base price of Rs 2 crore, chances are KKR would exercise the right to match (RTM) option to buy him back.
Kagiso Rabada
The South African is a proven performer in international cricket and IPL, who has raw pace that trouble batters. The right armer has been among the top wicket in successive IPL editions.
Even though Punjab Kings couldn’t qualify for the final last year, Rabada held his own, with his impressive strike rate and capability to keep batters quiet in the slog overs.
Given his past impact, Punjab could use the RTM card to retain him.
Trent Boult
The New Zealander is one of the rare bowlers in world cricket who can swing the ball both ways. It enable him to take early wickets in the powerplays that often goes on to decide games.
The left armer has had a stellar IPL careers and has now turned in to a franchise cricket merchant, playing in most of the global T20 leagues.
Rajasthan Royals benefitted immensely from his presence as undoubtedly other teams would like to have him to get a strong start in matches.
Fazalhaq Farooqi
The Afghan sppeter has emerges a bright talent in the last couple of years, with his ability to make the ball swing taking batters by surprise.
Farooqi has performed impressively in international cricket, suggesting he is not a flash in the pan. It has made IPL franchises treat him with seriousness and ready to put their money on.
At an asking price of Rs 2 crore, Farooqi comes as an affordable base price and could be one for the player.
Anrich Nortje
Injuries crippled the South African in recent times but none denies the genuine raw pace Nortje possesses. The right armer consistently clocked over 150 km/h and is a proven match-winner when on song.
Landing yorkers and bouncers at break-neck pace is highly craved by IPL teams and it wouldn’t be a surprise if there is a battle to acquire him.
Top quality pace bowlers are a rare commodity that compels IPL teams to have at least one of them in their squad. Cricket Sports News: Latest Cricket News, Cricket Live Score, Sports Breaking News from Sports Today
