In a surprising turn of events at the IPL 2024 Auction, Mallika Sagar, the auctioneer, found herself in a moment of confusion during the bidding war for M Siddharth. The base price was set at 20 lakh, and several teams showed interest, with Lucknow Super Giants (LSG) and Royal Challengers Bangalore (RCB) engaging in a fierce battle.
As the bids quickly escalated to 95 lakh, the confusion intensified, with both LSG and RCB actively participating. The little confusion didn’t create any severe impact as bid went smoothly further ahead. The tension in the room rose as the bids reached 1 crore and eventually peaked at 2.4 crore. After a brief pause, it was LSG who secured the promising player M. Siddharth for 2.4 crore.
Mallika Sagar: History Maker
In a groundbreaking move, Mallika Sagar created history at the Indian Premier League’s (IPL) 2024 auction in Dubai. With a successful 23-year career in art auctioneering, Mallika became the first female auctioneer at the world’s richest franchise cricket league.
Breaking away from the tradition that has predominantly featured male auctioneers like Welshman Richard Madley, Briton Hugh Edmeades, and India’s Charu Sharma, Mallika Sagar’s inclusion marks a significant milestone. The daylong event is witnessing the auctioning of more than 300 cricketers, adding an extra layer of excitement to the IPL 2024 proceedings.
As Mallika takes the stage, her presence reflects a positive shift in promoting diversity and inclusivity within the IPL, setting a precedent for future editions. The cricketing world eagerly awaits this historic moment as Mallika Sagar paves the way for more opportunities for women in prominent roles within the cricketing landscape.
Who is M Siddharth?
M Siddharth, who had an impressive stint with Lycia Kovai Kings in TNPL 2023, showcased his talent by picking up 11 wickets in nine matches.
The young bowler, previously part of the Chennai Super Kings (CSK) setup as a net bowler, has also contributed to the Indian team in a similar capacity. His recent success in the TNPL and his valuable experience make him a potential IPL debutant for the upcoming season.
The IPL 2024 Auction continues to be a platform of surprises, intense bidding wars, and unexpected turns. With players fetching record-breaking amounts and franchises strategizing to build formidable squads, the auction remains a focal point of excitement for cricket enthusiasts. As teams gear up to finalize their rosters, anticipation is high for the thrilling cricketing action that awaits in the upcoming IPL season.
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