Punjab Kings (PBKS) set the stage for IPL 2024 with a headline-worthy auction, but it was the high-profile signing of Harshal Patel that caught the attention of cricket legend AB de Villiers. The former RCB star was acquired by PBKS for a whopping INR 11.75 crore, sparking debates on whether the hefty price was justified. Before the IPL 2024 Auction, it was another Punjab Kings player Sam Curran who was the costliest player in Indian Premier League.
Harshal Patel, known for his exceptional performances, especially in the 2021 IPL season where he emerged as the highest wicket-taker, had a relatively muted 2023 season with an economy of 9.66. Despite the staggering price tag, AB de Villiers defended the decision, emphasizing Harshal’s all-round capabilities and his ability to bewilder batters with his variations.
“Harshal going for a pretty nifty ₹11.75 crore. I don’t think that’s being overpaid. He’s a fantastic player. He is a wonderful T20 cricketer. He can also hit the cricket ball. The slower ball that he bowls bamboozles a lot of batters,” De Villiers commented on his YouTube channel.
Sam Curran overpriced?
While De Villiers stood by Harshal Patel’s valuation, he didn’t shy away from expressing his opinion on another player. England all-rounder Sam Curran, retained by PBKS for INR 18.50 crore, faced scrutiny from De Villiers. The South African maestro suggested that Curran has been overpaid for several years, citing his recent IPL performances and international outings.
“I don’t like to be controversial. But, in my opinion, he’s been overpaid for quite a few years now. He’s not a bad player; I like him. I don’t think he’s had a very good IPL recently. Also, for England, he hasn’t played exceptionally well,” De Villiers remarked.
Acknowledging Sam Curran potential to turn things around, De Villiers hinted that it might have been a strategic move for PBKS to consider parting ways with Sam Curran and allocate funds for different players. However, he clarified that his views were not meant to diminish Curran’s skills but rather to offer a perspective on the price tag.
As the cricketing world anticipates IPL 2024, the debate over player valuations continues, with the likes of De Villiers adding their insights to the mix.
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