Bangalore have been one of the most popular teams in the history of the Indian T20 league. Over the years, there have been several world-class players who have played for this franchise. Thus, they have managed to always remain in the limelight, irrespective of their on-field performances.
However, despite all the hype, the Bangalore franchise are yet to win their maiden title. On top of that, their then skipper Virat Kohli stepped down after the 2021 season. Thus, the 2016-finalists need a new leader as well.
This is one of the major reasons why the upcoming mega auction is going to be really crucial for them. Not only do they have to build a new side, but they will also have to select individuals who can carry the team in the near future. With someone like Mike Hesson in the management, one can expect their strategy to be good. So what should be their strategy? Which players should they look to buy? Today, we shall be taking a look at the ideal auction strategy of Bangalore.
Players retained:
Virat Kohli (INR 15 crore), Glenn Maxwell (INR 11 crore), Mohammed Siraj (INR 7 crore)
Remaining Purse:
INR 57 crore
Who Bangalore should target in the auction?
Shreyas Iyer:
Shreyas Iyer can be the ideal choice to lead Bangalore. Not only is he a proven leader, but he can also provide a long-term option as well. Moreover, he's arguably one of the best Indian middle-order batters and can play the role of an anchor. This will give Kohli the luxury to start hitting from ball one.
Jonny Bairstow:
Jonny Bairstow is probably the best wicket-keeper batter option in this mega auction. His flexibility is his USP as he can bat anywhere in the top-order. His ability to regularly deposit the ball out of the park is nothing short of gold.
Who Bangalore should buy back from the auction?
Yuzvendra Chahal:
Bangalore's decision to not retain Chahal took everyone by surprise. His ability to pick wickets in the middle overs is something that every captain dreams of having. Moreover, the leggie can guarantee his side wickets in almost every game. Thus, it wouldn't be surprising if the Bangalore-based franchise go all out for Chahal.
Harshal Patel:
Harshal Patel was Bangalore's MVP in the previous edition in 2021. He picked 32 wickets in the fourteenth edition of the league and went on to win the Purple Cap. Buying him back in the auction solved the death bowling issue for the franchise. It is to be noted that Patel is handy with the bat as well.