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IPL 2024 mini-auction (Source: Twitter)
From setting the record for most expensive players to some intriguing moments, the 2024 Indian Premier League (IPL) auction will be remembered for many reasons. The event, which took place on December 19 at the Coca-Cola Arena in Dubai, saw all ten franchises spend a combined sum of Rs 230.45 crore to sign as many as 72 players for the upcoming season.
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Mitchell Starc surpassed his national team skipper Pat Cummins to become the most expensive buy in IPL history with a staggering price of Rs 24.75 crore. Some franchises stole the show by making some steal deals. Apart from these bidding war highlights, there were some fascinating moments in the auction room. Let's look at three such moments in this article.
3. Punjab Kings’ confused signing
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The Punjab Kings (PBKS) management was confused when they acquired the services of an uncapped Indian player Shashank Singh at his base price. The auctioneer declared Shashank as PBKS' signing, but team owners Ness Wadia and Preity Zinta expressed concern that the player had been mistakenly identified and wanted to bid for someone else. Auctioneer Mallika Sagar denied the refusal as the purchase was already confirmed.
Meanwhile, the franchise later came up with a clarification that Shashank was on their target list. “Punjab Kings would like to clarify that Shashank Singh was always on our target list. The confusion was due to 2 players of the same name being on the list. We are delighted to have him on board and see him contribute to our success,” stated the franchise.
2. Rishabh Pant's presence at the auction
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Rishabh Pant, who has been out of action following a horrific accident at the end of last year, participated in the auction along with Ricky Ponting and Delhi Capitals (DC) team director Sourav Ganguly. The DC skipper was also seen raising the paddle. Pant is expected to feature in the IPL 2024.
1. RCB shocking reaction to Josh Hazlewood’s name
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Royal Challengers Bangalore (RCB) vice-president and Head Rajesh Menon hilariously reacted with folded hands when the auctioneer announced Josh Hazlewood's name. For the unversed, the Aussie pacer was released by RCB ahead of the auction. He registered himself at a base price of Rs 2 crore but went unsold as none of the franchises showed interest in him.