As the IPL 2024 Auction approaches on December 19, speculations surround the potential bidding war for New Zealand’s rising star, Rachin Ravindra. The 22-year-old all-rounder made a significant impact in the 2023 ODI World Cup, showcasing his batting and bowling prowess.
With an impressive tally of 578 runs, including three centuries and two half-centuries, and five crucial wickets, Rachin Ravindra has set a modest reserve price of Rs. 50 Lakhs for the auction.
Despite the anticipation of a substantial payday for Rachin Ravindra, former cricketer Sanjay Manjrekar offers insights into why Chennai Super Kings (CSK) might not be inclined to pursue the Kiwi talent during the auction.
Speaking to Star Sports, Manjrekar suggests that CSK might consider Rachin as a reserve batter but could be hesitant to disrupt their successful opening combination of Ruturaj Gaikwad and Devon Conway.
IPL 2024 Auction: Rachin Ravindra to CSK or RCB?
Manjrekar elaborates on the challenges Rachin Ravindra might face batting in the middle order, emphasizing that the young all-rounder had a more significant impact while opening during the World Cup. Expressing his opinion, Manjrekar states, “Batting in the middle order in the IPL will be tough for a guy like Rachin. He had to be in the top three and top two. To make the kind of impact at number four and five in the IPL for somebody like him will be tough.”
While acknowledging Rachin Ravindra’s talent, Manjrekar doubts CSK’s inclination to alter their foreign player dynamics. He notes that CSK has already established its foreign player combinations and might not be actively seeking changes, especially in the opening partnership.
Offering an alternative perspective, Manjrekar suggests that Royal Challengers Bangalore (RCB) could be an intriguing option for Rachin Ravindra if they decide to utilize Faf du Plessis in the number three spot. “RCB. If they decide Faf du Plessis can bat at number three, then they have Rachin Ravindra and Virat Kohli. That’s something they could do,” Manjrekar mentions.
As the auction date draws near, the fate of Rachin and the strategic choices made by IPL franchises will unfold, adding an element of excitement for cricket enthusiasts worldwide.
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