IPL 2019: 3 players who could attract the Top 3 bids at the auction
The IPL auctions are scheduled to be held this month. Next year's IPL will be an interesting one as there is a cloud of concern regarding the availability of certain players and the venue is also not clear.
This could affect the dynamics of the auctions. Last year saw the likes of Ben Stokes, Unadkat, KL Rahul and Manish Pandey dominate the auctions and we could see a few surprises in the upcoming auctions too.
On that note, let us have a look at three players who could attract the top bids at the auction.
#3 Shimron Hetymer
Shimron Hetymer, the 21-year-old left-hand middle-order batsman from West Indies will be one of the most sought-after overseas players in the auction.
He is a young batsman and like most of the Windies batsmen, he is attacking too. He has been in form this year and he was good against the Indian bowlers on Indian pitches.
Most of the franchises are in need of a quality middle-order batsman and hence he could go for big money in the auctions. Teams like RCB, KKR and RR may pay a huge amount to this youngster.
#2 Glenn Maxwell
It is certain that Glenn Maxwell will miss a part of next year's IPL due to the World Cup. However, Maxwell could be an important investment considering his attributes as a T20 player.
Although he was poor with DD last year, his credentials still remain the same and he can impact any team in a big way even if he is available for a few matches.
In his famous first season with KXIP, he was in form only in the first half which was enough to qualify for the playoffs.
Maxwell is also a useful spinner and an excellent fielder. Hence, teams like KXIP and RCB may go after him in the upcoming auctions.
#1 Axar Patel
Axar Patel was one of the unexpected names to be on the list of released players. It was more due to Axar Patel's price tag which led to him being released by KXIP.
Although KXIP can still buy him back, they could face a stiff opposition as most of the teams would want a quality domestic player in their squad.
Axar is a hard-hitting batsman who could be used as a floater in any batting line-up. He is a wily left-arm spinner and is acrobatic skills on the field is well known. Hence, Axar could attract one of the highest bid at the auction.
Teams like Rajasthan Royals and Kolkata Knight Riders need such a player and they could go all out for him in the auctions.