IPL 2018: 5 big buys who haven't had a great impact so far
Over the years, the rise of domestic T20 Leagues around the world has caused cricketers to relinquish their national contracts. And when it comes to money and stature, the Indian Premier League stands apart from the rest.
IPL has become the biggest earning platform for cricketers around the world. The auctions each year is only getting bigger every season. In 2008, MS Dhoni was the costliest player in the IPL when he was bought by CSK for Rs. 6 crores.
That figure has been breached by a lot of players in the last 2-3 auctions. The franchises are not hesitant in shedding huge amounts for the big players.
However, big amounts do not always guarantee big performances. There have been players, in past seasons, who have flattered to deceive after being picked for an astonishing price.
Let us look at 5 such players who have yet not come to the party after being bought for some insane amounts.
#5 Chris Woakes (RCB - Rs. 7.40 crores)
The bowling all-rounder from Warwickshire has been a regular for England in the limited overs cricket. His ability to bowl tight spells and his more than useful lower-order batting makes him the perfect player for T20 cricket.
He has been in some good form for England in recent times and hence an IPL contract was never really far away from him. CSK and RCB showed great interest in getting him in their respective squads, but in the end, RCB won the bidding war and bought him for Rs. 7.40 crores.
However, things haven't panned out as expected, so far. Woakes has not been able to contain runs for his team, and although he has taken 8 wickets, an economy of 10.47 is on the higher side. Additionally, he hasn't been able to provide any support with his batting in the lower-order.
Woakes would really want to contribute more to the team's cause after being picked for a hefty price.