The stage is set for the IPL 2024 auction. The ‘richie-rich’ event will take place in Dubai on December 19. While few star overseas players are likely to be in spotlight, few Indian capped players will be in high demand as well. One of the players, who will be in franchises’ radar is Harshal Patel.
The right-arm fast-medium bowler was released by Royal Challengers Bangalore (RCB) ahead of the IPL 2024 auction. Patel had a stellar IPL 2021, where picked record 32 wickets in the season in just 15 games.
However, Patel failed to replicate the same performance in the following seasons. His inconsistency and lack of variations cost him his place in the RCB squad.
However, the 33-year-old is likely to be a hot pick among franchises who are looking for a domestic all-rounder.
Harshal himself would be eager to prove that he was not a one-season wonder and that he still has the skills to perform at the highest level. Patel peaked at the right time as he bowled a title-winning spell to power Haryana to their maiden Vijay Hazare Trophy title two days ago.
Teams like Gujarat Titans, Mumbai Indians, who are in need for a domestic pacer, would eye Patel at the auction.
But will the franchises go all-in for him in the IPL 2024 auction? Patel has the experience and the ability to swing the ball both ways and bowl at the death. He can also contribute with the bat.
Whether he will go for big money or not remains to be seen, but he will surely be one of the players to watch out for in the auction.
