R Ashwin highlighted the widespread demand among IPL franchises for Mitchell Starc and Pat Cummins, acknowledging them as highly sought-after talents in the upcoming auction.
Ace spinner Ravichandran Ashwin shared insights on the upcoming IPL 2024 Auction, emphasizing the heightened interest in star overseas players like Mitchell Starc and Pat Cummins. With the auction approaching, franchises seek talents that align with their strategies, especially targeting players like Starc and Cummins due to their anticipated availability concerns related to upcoming events like the Ashes and the T20 World Cup.
Ashwin also mentioned other emerging talents like Rachin Ravindra and Gerald Coetzee but believes the focus remains primarily on securing Starc and Cummins’ services for the upcoming IPL.
“Mitchell Starc and Pat Cummins are the only two fresh guys. Though there are guys like Rachin Ravindra, Gerald Coetzee, and a few other names, it looks pretty sure that these are the two names everybody wants to acquire. The Ashes is going to come, as is the T20 World Cup, and there is a heavy chance that Pat Cummins and Mitchell Starc are going to pull out of the tournament, and it is there in their histories,” he said.
Despite his impactful performances in the ODI World Cup 2023, Ashwin predicted that Travis Head might not command a substantial bid in the IPL auction.
“I don’t think that it will be a very big bid. If I am proven wrong, I will be surprised,” he said.
Expressing views on South African all-rounder Gerald Coetzee, he suggested that Mumbai Indians are keen on acquiring him. Ashwin envisioned Coetzee fitting seamlessly into the Mumbai Indians’ style, underlining his potential compatibility with the team’s dynamics, indicating a strong inclination towards him over players like Mitchell Starc.
Additionally, Ashwin admitted that he would be surprised if Head attracted a significant bid despite his notable World Cup displays.
Last Updated on December 4, 2023
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